Does letting car sit kill battery?

Mechanics say that is more than enough time for your car battery to drain or die. “When you let it sit for a week or two weeks it runs out of juice,” said Hunter West. In fact, he says because of the technology in newer model cars it can lead to batteries dying quicker. West says it’s an easy problem to avoid.

How long does a car battery last without driving?

How long does a car battery last without driving? A car battery will typically last about four weeks , but it will vary based on your vehicle and age of the battery. [1] , [2] As mentioned, a car battery dies fast in hotter weather, but its discharge will also be accelerated if your vehicle has more high-end electronics to power.

Why does my car battery go dead after a few days?

Some have had the dead battery problem because of a bad cell in the battery, faulty battery cables, a bad diode in the alternator, or even a problem in the car’s radio. A dead battery after a few days has been a problem on several makes of car, not just my 2012 Hyundai Sonata.

How often do you need to charge your car battery?

“The best thing [to do to keep your battery charged] is to drive the car on a regular basis; every three to four days should be fine,” says Calvin Feist, instructor at NAIT in Edmonton. “It needs to be driven and not idled.”

What to do if your car battery dies from sitting?

In the event your car battery dies from sitting too long, try jump-starting your car. This will usually get your car going again if your battery and vehicle are in relatively good condition. If that doesn’t work, it’s probably time for a replacement battery. [5] Also check to see if there are any signs of a bad alternator.

How long can you let a car battery sit?

Depending on the vehicle, you can let your car sit for months at a time if you plan to have a storage methodology in place. Take a look at what the safe sitting time for a vehicle is. BMW says Four weeks is the max for storage without removing the battery or putting it on some form of life support or a battery tender.

How long does it take for a car battery to go dead?

Battery: When you’re driving your car frequently, a battery should last between three and five years. But when your vehicle is sitting, your car’s battery will likely go dead in just two or three months. Why? Because when you drive your car, the vehicle’s alternator continually recharges the battery to replenish the power you’re using.

How long can a car battery be on life support?

Take a look at what the safe sitting time for a vehicle is. BMW says Four weeks is the max for storage without removing the battery or putting it on some form of life support or a battery tender. The battery, if removed is good for about six weeks to 6 months.

How often should you charge a car battery?

Giving the battery a charge every 12 weeks is a good standard to follow. [3] If you expect your car battery to sit unused for more than a month, you should consider removing the battery and storing it away.