How many years can a car battery with auto start-stop generally last?
2 Answers
Under normal circumstances, the service life of an auto start-stop battery is around 3-4 years. Symptoms of a damaged car battery are as follows: 1. Starting: The most noticeable phenomenon is the feedback when starting the car. If starting becomes very difficult, it is largely due to battery aging. However, there are many other factors that can cause starting difficulties, such as severe carbon buildup and abnormal spark plugs, so it is necessary to consider other conditions as well. 2. Horn: If the car has difficulty starting and the horn is not as loud as before, it is likely that the battery has aged and needs to be replaced promptly. Additionally, the car's headlights will be affected to some extent, causing them to dim. 3. Battery warning light: Another symptom is the battery warning light, which is the most intuitive indicator. This warning light specifically reflects whether there is an issue with the battery. When the battery warning light comes on, it indicates an abnormality, and it is necessary to promptly visit an auto repair shop for inspection.
Just bought a car with auto start-stop, and the battery had to be replaced after just over three years. To be honest, these batteries wear out quickly due to the frequent engine starts from the start-stop system, which involves numerous discharge and charge cycles. Generally, their lifespan is only about three to five years. I know a few friends who drive similar cars, and their experiences are pretty much the same—in city traffic with frequent stops, the battery drains fast, sometimes failing in as little as two and a half years. If the driving conditions are better with more highway miles, it might last up to five years. I recommend turning off the start-stop function occasionally, especially in heavy traffic, to reduce unnecessary cycles. Also, these batteries aren’t cheap—AGM types usually cost over 1,000 RMB—so regular maintenance is crucial. For example, check the voltage monthly with a multimeter to ensure it stays above 12.6 volts. If the car struggles to start or warning lights come on, get it checked at a professional shop immediately to avoid further issues. Temperature also plays a big role—cold weather drains the battery faster, while hot weather increases self-discharge, so try to park in shaded areas when possible.
