Ford Battery Service and Replacement

At Stivers Ford of Montgomery in Alabama, we understand the critical role a reliable battery plays in your vehicle's performance. Our dedicated Service Center offers comprehensive care, including thorough diagnostics, maintenance, and replacements using genuine Ford parts. Our certified technicians ensure your vehicle remains dependable, providing peace of mind on every journey. Whether you're experiencing battery issues or seeking preventive maintenance, trust Stivers Ford of Montgomery to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Below, we'll highlight the importance of your Ford's battery, signs that you need a replacement, and how you can resolve battery-related issues in Montgomery, Alabama.

Stivers Ford Battery Service and Replacements

Here at Stivers Ford of Montgomery, our Service Center can provide battery servicing or replace your Ford's battery when necessary. Let's dive into why it's important to regularly check your battery and some signs that suggest it's time for a professional battery service.

The Importance of Regular Battery Checks

Your battery plays a key role in starting up your vehicle, meaning it's important to ensure that it's always in good condition. However, all batteries fail over time, some faster than others. This is why you should check your battery regularly, even if you've only had it for a relatively short period.

The first thing you can do is visually inspect your battery and its connections. Locate the battery under your Ford's hood and look for signs of rust. The terminals on your battery should be free of rust and securely connected in place. If it's easy to slip off the connectors, or if there is a significant amount of build-up around your battery terminals, you could experience electrical problems.

The other thing you'll want to check is if your battery has enough power. To do this, you'll need to use a multimeter, which can test the output from your battery. Testing your battery with a multimeter is fairly easy, but if you don't own one or if you're not comfortable doing it yourself, a local Ford Service Center can quickly test your battery for you.

Signs You Need Battery Service or Ford Battery Replacement

In addition to regular inspections, some signs will suggest it's time for battery service or a new battery. The most obvious sign is when your vehicle won't start. When you turn your vehicle's ignition key or press the Start button, this starts a chain reaction that goes from your vehicle's battery to the starter system. With a dead or dying battery, your vehicle won't be able to start properly. You may hear a clicking noise as you turn the key, or your vehicle may not respond at all.

If your vehicle starts up but takes a little longer than normal, this could be the result of a dying battery. Your Ford should start almost immediately when you turn the key. While other things can cause a Ford to not start up quickly, a dying battery is one of the most common.

Finally, your vehicle's other electrical systems may hint at a bad battery. For instance, if your headlights look dimmer or if your dashboard lights flicker when trying to start your vehicle, you may not be getting enough power from your battery. Any time an electrical component in your vehicle isn't acting right, your first suspicion should be the battery.

Understanding Your Ford's Battery Needs

Every Ford vehicle relies on a strong battery to operate. The battery is the power source for getting your vehicle running and for many of the modern amenities found inside Ford models, such as the infotainment system or power seats. As you're driving, the vehicle's alternator recharges the battery, helping it to last longer and ensuring you have enough juice for each drive.

However, even with the alternator recharging, your battery will eventually run out of power. The average vehicle battery lasts for three to five years, but factors such as your driving habits or extreme weather can shorten this life span.

For example, if you regularly idle your vehicle, you're using up the battery without recharging it via the alternator. Cold weather can also significantly decrease battery performance. If you keep your vehicle parked outside during freezing temperatures, you may find that it's harder to start up your vehicle. Waiting too long between drives could even result in the battery dying altogether. 

Battery Maintenance Tips To Extend Your Battery's Life

Proper battery maintenance can significantly extend the life of your vehicle's battery, ensuring reliable performance and saving you money on replacements. Start by regularly cleaning battery terminals with a baking soda and water solution to remove buildup, and tighten the cables to maintain a strong connection.

Next, avoid draining the battery by turning off all lights, electronics, and accessories when the engine isn't running. Extreme temperatures can affect battery performance, so parking in shaded or climate-controlled areas is ideal. Use a battery insulator or thermal blanket in very hot or cold climates. Following these tips can help maximize your battery's life span and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Lastly, understand your Ford battery's warranty. Check the warranty details, including the coverage period, which often ranges from two to five years. Most warranties have a free replacement period and a prorated period where partial costs are covered. Ensure you know what voids the warranty, such as improper maintenance or damage. Keeping proof of purchase and following the manufacturer's care guidelines can help you maximize your warranty benefits.

Schedule Your Ford Battery Service and Replacement Today

It's frustrating when you get in your vehicle and find that it won't start. Save your future self some hassle by keeping your Ford's battery in good shape. Conducting simple inspections and being aware of early warning signs can tell you when it's time for battery maintenance services. Then, when you need a new battery or want to have your current battery charged, you can visit Stivers Ford of Montgomery for all your Ford battery service needs. Schedule your next service visit online today, or contact us with any questions. We look forward to hearing from you.