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A sluggish start, flickering car lights or notifications on your dashboard could mean your vehicle’s battery is on its last legs.
Take a look at why car batteries go flat, what the warning signs are, when to replace the battery in your car and why a regular battery health check is a good idea.
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Here are the common indicators that it is time to replace your car battery:
If you are experiencing any of these issues, book a battery health check with the NRMA by clicking here or calling 1300 476 053, so you don’t end up stranded with a car that won’t start. Members save $90.
Broken down? Whether it’s a car battery issue or not, you can request assistance from our roadside team here.
A definitive health check from an expert can tell you exactly when it’s time to replace the battery in your car and take the guesswork out of the situation.
Our car battery health check service is a quick test, completed in under 10 minutes, that can detect weak cells, faulty intercell connectors and other car battery issues. Once the test is complete, you'll receive a printed report giving you insight into your battery’s condition and expected lifespan.
NRMA members can request a visit from one of our mobile car battery specialists by clicking here. We operate in metropolitan Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle, Canberra, and most of regional NSW. Our battery health checks are suitable for all types of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, motorhomes and light commercial vehicles.
Your car battery health check will be carried out using manufacturer-specified battery testers that are connected to your vehicle's battery terminals to check the condition of your car battery. If any issues are identified, your NRMA patrol will walk you through your options so you can make an informed choice about what to do next.
It’s important to have your battery tested regularly, not just when problems arise.
Batteries tend to degrade over time and wear can be influenced by factors like driving habits, climate and battery quality. We recommend conducting a battery health check once or twice a year, or before setting out on a long road trip.
A typical car battery lasts between three and five years, although its lifespan can vary depending on how much driving you do, the type of vehicle you have and environmental conditions where you live. For example, extreme heat or cold can shorten battery life, while regular long drives help keep it charged and healthy.
Once your battery hits the three-year mark, it’s worth proactively checking its health. To avoid the inconvenience of a breakdown, consider replacing your battery before it completely fails, especially if you're planning a road trip or driving in remote areas.
Choose the NRMA for your car battery replacement and benefit from the following:
Book your battery health check here. Not a member? No problem: Even non-members can access our services, though a small call-out fee applies.
