How Long Can A Car Sit Before The Battery Dies?

It is recommended to drive your vehicle regularly to keep it in optimal shape. However, this isn't always an option. So you may be wondering... how long can a car sit before the battery dies?

How Long Can a Car Sit Before the Battery Dies?

Your car battery could die within as little as two weeks when unused. Why does this occur exactly?

Newer models of vehicles come equipped with the latest technology, these cars not only high-tech, but are now always on, continually monitoring the car’s systems around the clock. Where does the power come from for these latest features? Your car’s battery. When the car isn’t regularly being used, the battery doesn’t have a chance to recharge, eventually leading to a dead battery.

How Can You Prevent Your Car Battery From Dying?

The easiest thing to do is to start your car once a week (at minimum) and let it run for approximately 10 minutes. Or you could even take it for a ride for a mile or two. This should give your vehicle just enough battery life to keep it going for the next week (give or take).

If you know you won’t be using your car for a while or won’t be able to recharge it weekly, it may be best to disconnect it completely from the vehicle. When stored properly out of the car in a secure place, a detached car battery has the chance to last up to six months. Just like any other car battery, it will need charging, but not as often as if it were attached. Giving the battery a charge around every 12 weeks is a good rule of thumb.

Your Local Battery Service & Replacement Technicians:

If you’re searching for battery services for your vehicle, our team at Sunrise Auto Repair can help. Regardless of the make, model, or type of vehicle, our ASE certified mechanics are experienced and ready give you the professional battery services you can trust.