A car cannot run without a car battery. Car batteries are used in over 1.2 billion vehicles around the world. To learn more about this critical component of your vehicle, continue on for an FAQ:

Q: How does a car battery work?

A: To put it as simply as possible, a car battery is made up of several metal plates and sulfuric acid, which are encased in sturdy plastic. The metal plates and sulfuric acid work together to produce chemical energy that converts to electrical energy and powers your car. .

Q: Can one car battery charge another?

A: One car battery cannot charge another car battery, but one car battery can help jump another car battery. In order to jump a car, use jumper cables, connecting the red cable to the positive terminal on the dead battery. Then, connect the other red jumper cable to the positive terminal on the good battery. The black jumper cables are connected to the negative terminals. Once the cables are connected, the car with the good battery can power up and give the car with the bad battery the boost it needs.

Q: How do I know if my car battery needs to be replaced?

A: If you think your battery is aged, take a look under the hood. If your battery has corrosion, clean up the battery and go for a drive. If you still feel as though your battery isn't performing as well as it used to, you can use an electronic battery tester. If the test indicates the battery is failing, it's time for a replacement. You can also tell if you need to replace your battery if you're constantly jumping your car to get it started.

Q: How long does a car battery last?

A: The climate you drive in can alter the lifespan of your battery, but the average lifespan is 4 to 5 years. This lifespan can be much shorter if you live in a hot climate.

Need to replace your car's battery before the cold weather hits? Visit Island Auto Group to receive top-quality service on your vehicle.