Automotive Batteries: Choose, Test, and Keep Yours Happy

Got a car that won’t start? Most of the time it’s the battery. Knowing when to replace it, how to pick the right type, and how to keep it in good shape saves you time and money.

How to Spot a Failing Battery

Look out for these tell‑tale signs: the engine cranks slowly, the dashboard lights dim, or the car stalls right after starting. A quick voltage check with a multimeter can confirm the problem – a healthy 12‑volt battery should read around 12.6V when the engine is off and 13.8‑14.4V when it’s running.

Another clue is the age. Most batteries last 3‑5 years, depending on climate and driving habits. If yours is older than that, schedule a test even if it seems fine.

Picking the Right Battery for Your Car

Start by checking your owner’s manual or the label on the old battery. You’ll need the correct group size (the physical dimensions) and the right Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating for your climate. In colder regions, a higher CCA helps the engine turn over when it’s frosty.

Don’t forget about warranty. At Northwich Tyres Centre we stock batteries with up to 3‑year warranties, so you’re covered if a defect shows up early.

If you’re unsure, bring your registration number to the shop. Our team will look up the exact fit and suggest the best options for your budget – whether you want a cheap starter or a premium long‑life unit.

When you buy a new battery, clean the terminal clamps and the tray before fitting. Corrosion on the terminals is a common cause of starting trouble, and a simple brush with a wire‑brush works wonders.

Installing a battery is easy if you follow safety steps: wear gloves, disconnect the negative (-) cable first, then the positive (+). Place the new unit, reconnect positive first, then negative, and tighten the clamps snugly.

After fitting, run the engine for a few minutes to let the alternator charge the battery. If the car still hesitates, have a professional run a load test – we do that quickly at our centre.

Regular maintenance keeps a battery alive longer. Check the electrolyte level on lead‑acid batteries (if they’re not sealed) and top up with distilled water if needed. Keep the battery’s surface dry and free of dirt.

If you notice a bad smell, swelling, or cracked case, replace the battery immediately. Those are signs of internal damage and can be hazardous.

Northwich Tyres Centre doesn’t just sell batteries. We offer free fitting with a 30‑minute guarantee, so you’re back on the road fast. Need a MOT? We’ll test the battery as part of the service and let you know if it passes.

Bottom line: know the age, watch for symptoms, pick the right size and CCA, keep terminals clean, and get it fitted by a pro if you’re not comfortable. With these steps, your automotive battery will stay reliable for years.