Is it necessary to go to a 4S store to replace the car battery?
2 Answers
It is not necessary to go to a 4S store to replace the car battery. You can replace the battery yourself or have it replaced at an auto repair shop. The battery is generally warranted for about 2 to 3 years. Car owners should pay special attention to the usual maintenance of the battery and replace it in time when necessary to avoid danger. If the battery is used frequently, under heavy load, or for extended periods during this time, its lifespan may be shorter. Steps to replace the battery: 1. Confirm the installation location of the battery. Most models are installed in the engine compartment or luggage compartment, while a few models are installed in the cabin; 2. Remove the battery protective cover and other external protective devices, and measure the voltage between the two poles with a multimeter; 3. Turn off the ignition switch of the faulty vehicle, disconnect the negative connection first, then the positive connection; 4. Remove the battery fixing device and take out the battery; 5. If the old battery has leakage or corrosion, the connecting wires and other parts need to be cleaned.
I've been driving my old car for over a decade and have replaced the battery several times. There's really no need to go through the hassle of visiting a 4S shop unless your car is still under warranty or has start-stop functionality. 4S shops charge exorbitant prices—an OEM battery can easily cost over a thousand yuan, while a regular repair shop will do it for 500 to 800 yuan. Doing it yourself is even cheaper, costing just a few hundred yuan if you buy the correct model. However, it's crucial to have some basic automotive knowledge. For example, when removing or installing, always loosen the negative terminal first before touching the positive one to avoid short circuits and fires. Modern cars have complex electronic systems, so after replacement, you might need to reset the air conditioning and radio settings—something a roadside shop can handle too. Safety first—I recommend finding a reliable quick-service shop for older cars, checking the battery's manufacturing date in advance to ensure it's fresh, and avoiding cheap, unbranded products that waste money and pose risks. In short, saving money and time is key—don't blindly trust 4S shops.
