Does a battery with 15% test life need replacement?
2 Answers
If a battery shows 15% remaining life in tests but still functions normally, replacement may not be necessary. Here are some car battery maintenance tips: 1. In-car electricity usage: To preserve your car battery, avoid activities like listening to the radio at high volume, charging phones, or using air pumps while the engine is off. Frequent deep discharges significantly reduce battery lifespan. 2. Highway driving: Regular long-distance driving not only cleans engine carbon deposits but also fully charges the battery. Typically, one hour of highway driving can fully charge the battery and maintain optimal condition. 3. Avoid prolonged parking: If the vehicle won't be used for extended periods, either disconnect the battery terminals or start the engine every two weeks and drive several kilometers to maintain normal battery function. 4. High-power devices: Many car appliances like refrigerators, vacuum cleaners, and inflators have high instantaneous power demands. Never power them directly from the car battery - always start the engine first before connecting these devices.
I've been driving for over 20 years. When the battery life drops to 15%, it must be replaced immediately. 15% means the battery is almost dead. In slightly colder weather, the car might not start. If you break down in an unfamiliar place and can't find a tow truck, that's when real trouble begins. Last time, I was too lazy to replace it and ended up stranded on the highway, spending hundreds on emergency services. A normal battery lasts three to five years. A test reading of 15% indicates aging internal plates and very low charge capacity. Don't risk unsafe driving to save a couple hundred bucks, especially during winter and summer when problems are most likely. Safety first—replace it with a new battery for worry-free driving.
