How Long Can a Car Battery Sit Before It Dies?
1 Answers
Car batteries typically lose their charge after about 2 months of inactivity. A car battery discharges approximately 1% per day. If the battery remains connected to the vehicle, the car draws a minimal current (commonly referred to as "parasitic" or "sleep" current) of around 80mA to maintain basic functions. If the car is equipped with an anti-theft alarm, it will consume additional power. Signs that indicate the need for battery replacement: If no other issues are present, sudden difficulty starting the vehicle may be a sign of a failing battery; dim headlights during idling; illumination of the battery warning light; unusual noises from the starter due to weakened battery discharge capability; visible bulging or leakage from the battery. Battery maintenance tips: Regular inspection is an effective way to extend the lifespan of a car battery; clean the battery terminals (positive and negative) with a specialized battery terminal brush or an old toothbrush to remove dust and corrosion; apply a layer of petroleum jelly or grease to the terminals to create a protective barrier.