How often should the Mondeo's battery be replaced?
2 Answers
The Mondeo's battery generally needs to be replaced every 3-4 years. The following situations indicate the need for battery replacement: 1. Voltage test: Normally, the no-load voltage of the battery is around 13V. If the no-load voltage is below 10V during testing, it means the battery needs replacement. Otherwise, the vehicle may experience difficulty starting or fail to start. 2. Visual inspection: Check if there is any bulging around the battery, similar to a swollen phone battery. This indicates the battery has reached the end of its lifespan and must be replaced. Additionally, look for white or green powder around the battery. These oxides mean the battery is no longer usable.
I've been driving a Mondeo for several years, and the battery situation really depends on the specific circumstances. Generally, replacing it every 3 to 5 years is reliable. If you drive less and park more often, or frequently take short trips without fully charging the battery, it might fail in just over two years. The last time I replaced mine was in the fourth year because it had trouble starting in winter, and I only realized it after needing a tow. Usually, be mindful not to use the air conditioning or stereo without the engine running to avoid prematurely retiring the battery. Checking the battery is simple: look for corrosion on the terminals and clean them with baking soda, and if the voltage measures below 12 volts, it's risky. Don't wait until it's completely dead to replace it—delaying could disrupt your plans and cost more. I recommend having the auto shop test it during regular maintenance checks.
