Car Battery Repair at Ames Ford in Ames, Iowa
Car batteries are crucial to your car and can be easy to change. If you’re not looking for the hassle, Ames Ford is happy to take care of everything for you.
Why Car Battery Repair is Important
You need your car battery to start your car. It’s essential to take care of it to start your car when you need it most. That means checking up on your battery to make sure it works when you need it.
When You Should Get Your Car’s Battery Repaired
You should change your car’s battery every four to five years. However, you must get it checked more regularly to make sure it doesn’t die early. You’ll know if you need a new car battery if it gets difficult to start your car or if you need a jump when you aren’t abusing it.
The Car Battery Repair Process
Your car’s battery can be repaired relatively quickly from the comfort of your own home. While some recommend special tools you can get at the auto parts shop, they aren’t indispensable.
1. Get Under the Hood and Remove the Clamps from the Old Battery
These may be difficult to remove; that’s where tools from the auto parts store can be helpful. However, other tools can be useful in prying them off.
2. Remove the Old Battery
You should wear gloves for this; batteries can be heavy, and if it’s a damaged battery, there could be fluids.
3. Put the New Battery into the Car
Be sure to orient the positive end to the red terminal and the black to the negative.
4. Place the Clamps onto the Correct Terminals
Double check the terminals are correct before refastening the clamps
Cost of Car Battery Repair
Car batteries can be priced anywhere between $45-$250 depending on the climate your battery is prepared for and the expected lifespan of the battery. You’ll need to add labor costs if you’re planning on having a technician take care of it for you, but it is a quick repair.
Questions to Ask Your Service Technician
When getting a new car battery, you can ask your mechanic about what type of battery they were planning on installing and determine if you’re interested in an upgrade. In addition, be sure to mention precisely the cause of whatever battery problem you were experiencing so the mechanic can determine if there are more extensive problems with the car.
Signs of a Quality Car Battery Repair
Labor rates are rarely above $150 per hour. A factor that in when asking your technician about the distinction between parts and labor on the bill, and be dubious if something doesn’t seem right about the numbers adding up. In addition, you’re looking for your car’s power problems to be solved. If you haven’t noticed this and are still experiencing problems, you probably had an improper repair.
Caring for Your Vehicle After Car Battery Repair
One of the best ways to keep your car battery running strong is to avoid short trips. In addition, letting your car sit too long is a no-no for your car battery’s lifespan. You can use a relatively inexpensive battery tester to test the lifespan of your battery yourself, too!
Contact Our Service Department in Ames, Iowa
Ames Ford is prepared for every car repair you need, big or small. Give us a call at 515-233-1913, schedule service online, or just drop by to set something up when we’re open. We’re proud to serve the Ames community and surrounding areas at Ames Ford.