Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Bend

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Jan 5, 2024
New Car Battery - RAM Truck
Ram Truck. Photo: RAM.

Few things are more frustrating than being stranded by a dead car battery. That’s why it’s smart to monitor the health of your battery and replace it before it dies. Your local RAM dealer can test your battery and install a new car battery when necessary.

Getting a New Car Battery From Your RAM Dealer

How to Know It’s Time

There are usually signs that your battery is nearing the end of its life. If your car is sluggish to start, or if your headlights, interior lights, and other electrical features are operating slowly, those may all be signs that your battery is weakening. Your battery may also develop physical signs of deterioration, including excessive corrosion or warping.

A sulfuric odor, similar to the smell of rotten eggs, is another sign to watch for. This type of odor can indicate that your battery is leaking acidic fluid, which signals the need for an immediate battery replacement. If you notice signs that your battery is starting to fail, schedule a time for our service department to test it and determine if you’re due for a replacement.


What To Expect From Your Service Appointment

Anytime you bring your vehicle into our service department, you can expect fast, friendly service from our factory-trained technicians. Our technicians know your make and model inside and out, and they’ll be able to quickly get to the bottom of your problem. Sometimes problems that appear to be battery-related end up involving the alternator or starter, so they’ll focus on properly diagnosing your mechanical issue and performing the right repair.

Battery testing and replacement don’t take long, and these services are eligible for our Express Lane service. This means you’ll be back behind the wheel in no time.


Your New Battery Should Be Good for Several Years

Climates with excessive heat can be punishing for vehicle batteries, but that’s not a problem here in Oregon. Batteries in this state tend to last three to five years, depending on your driving patterns.

The best way to extend the life of your battery is to make sure you get occasional, long drives in. These drives boost the battery’s charge more than frequent, short trips. So if your daily commute is short, make a habit of getting out on the highway for an extended drive every couple of weeks. Trying to avoid leaving your headlights on overnight while the vehicle is powered off will also save your battery.

Maintaining your battery doesn’t have to be difficult or inconvenient. It’s a matter of paying attention to how your vehicle is performing and acting as soon as you see signs of concern. When it’s time to schedule your next battery service appointment, give us a call at Lithia Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Bend.