Should the battery of a four-year-old car be replaced?
2 Answers
4-year-old cars do not require battery replacement. Battery lifespan: The lifespan of new energy vehicle batteries is generally around 6 years. After 6 years, the frequency of malfunctions increases, and it is recommended to replace the battery promptly to address a series of issues caused by battery aging, such as significantly reduced range, decreased charge capacity, and slower charging. Battery usage precautions: Do not charge new energy vehicles immediately after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. After extended exposure, the temperature of the power box rises, causing the battery temperature to increase. Charging immediately can accelerate the aging and damage of internal circuits. Do not charge during thunderstorms. When it rains with thunder, never charge to avoid lightning strikes, which could lead to combustion accidents. It is not recommended to turn on the air conditioning inside the car while charging a new energy vehicle. Using the air conditioning while charging increases the internal charge load of the battery, accelerates the degradation of the power battery pack, and reduces the battery's service life.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I can tell you that a car battery used for four years indeed requires extra attention. The average lifespan of a battery is three to five years, and at my age, I've encountered issues when the time comes. For example, the engine struggling to start or lights suddenly dimming are classic warning signs. I remember my car in its fourth year had trouble starting in cold winter weather. After testing at the repair shop, the voltage had dropped to 11 volts, far below the normal 12-plus volts, so I replaced it immediately. The driving environment is also crucial—if you frequently drive in hot or rainy areas, the battery ages faster. Short trips are also a concern, as incomplete charging can shorten its life. I recommend regularly checking the battery's condition with a simple multimeter or by a professional. Don't wait until you're stranded on the road to regret it—costly and frustrating. During routine maintenance, clean the battery terminals to prevent corrosion and dust buildup. Don’t underestimate it—a faulty battery can render the entire car unusable, especially on long trips. In short, four years is a critical point, and addressing it early brings much more peace of mind.
