When asking this question, it is important to first read through the warranty provided with your battery at the time of purchase. Then, consider why you might need to jump start a new battery several times in the course of a year. If your battery is going flat repeatedly, it’s worth having either the battery or alternator tested. In most cases, if a battery with minimal use goes flat often, there could be an issue with the alternator. Having your alternator tested by a service technician will help determine if the alternator is at fault, rather than the battery.
Checking the Alternator
If the alternator has trouble producing a charge, or shows poor continuity when tested, the battery may be going flat because it isn’t being charged properly while the car is running. In such cases, it’s typically the alternator causing the problem, not the battery. Battery manufacturers and stores are unlikely to replace a battery if the alternator is at fault. It’s the car owner’s responsibility to keep other vehicle parts, like the alternator, in good working condition so that the battery is properly charged during normal use. Allowing the alternator to continually try to charge a failing battery will also place undue stress on the alternator, potentially leading to more serious damage.
Understanding Battery Warranties
Battery warranties often do not cover batteries that have gone completely flat multiple times, especially if you’ve jump-started the battery on several occasions. When you first notice a potential issue with a new battery, it’s crucial to take it back to the place of purchase for testing. If a defect is found early on, the battery can usually be replaced quickly and easily.
However, many battery manufacturers have specific provisions in their warranties that discourage jump starting. In some cases, jump starting the battery can void or limit the warranty, reducing your chances of getting a replacement battery. This is something to keep in mind if you rely on jump starts frequently.
The Risks of Jump Starting
While jump starting a car may be necessary in some situations to get back on the road, it’s best to limit how often you resort to this method. Jump starting, if done correctly, typically won’t cause immediate harm to the battery or alternator. However, if performed incorrectly, jump starting can lead to damage to both the battery and the alternator, especially if it is done repeatedly.
When jump-starting, be sure to follow these steps:
- Check the battery’s terminals for corrosion or damage before connecting jump leads.
- Always ensure the cables are connected to the right terminals (positive to positive and negative to negative).
- Run the assisting car for a few minutes to provide a steady charge before attempting to start the car with the flat battery.
- Never keep the jump leads connected for longer than necessary after the car starts to avoid damaging the electrical systems.
A much better approach is to use a “trickle” charger or a slow battery charger that delivers a lower stream of electric current to charge the battery gradually. This is not only gentler on the battery but also on the alternator, reducing the risk of overworking or damaging either component. Trickle charging is particularly useful when the battery is completely flat or showing signs of weakness.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
Instead of repeatedly jump starting your car, it’s better to get to the root of the problem. If the battery is going flat frequently, have it and the alternator tested to see if there is an underlying issue. By addressing the problem early, you’ll avoid the hassle of repeated jump starts and potentially expensive repairs down the line.
Conclusion
Jump starting your car’s battery multiple times over the course of a year is not ideal, especially for a new battery. Regular jump starts could indicate an issue with the alternator rather than the battery itself. To preserve the life of both the battery and alternator, consider using a trickle charger and have your alternator tested if problems persist. When in doubt, consult with a service technician who can help diagnose and address the underlying issue.
