[dearot]

Hi guys,

My car battery nearly dead I think. If I dont use the car for few days I can feels like the car strugling to start. I did recharge it but still the same. Before I get it replaced I was just wondering whether it worth to ask the garage like Bob Jane etc to service the battery. Cheers.

[royce]

check your terminals are clean and if you have a mulimeter that the alternator is working properly, otherwise its fair to say its getting on and needs replacing

if you dont use the car a lot it might be worth getting a little maintainence charger to keep it charged and in good nick

[Scrawny]

Go with what Royce suggested, make sure the terminals are clean and tight. Also check fluid levels, all the lead should be covered. Don't fill right to the top though
Batteries usually only last 4 years so if it about that age then look at replacing, should be less than $100

[dearot]

Well I think its already more than 4 years old. Better replace it then.

[Rockhopper]

If you get 4 years out of a battery you're doing well. although a lot of the better ones at least have a 3 year warranty on them now. If you take it to a garage, the most they will do is a load test and if they're really looking after you they'll do a specific gravity reading on each of the cells, and will advise you you will require a new battery. Apart from cleaning the terminals and putting a little water in the battery (if it's not a sealed unit), there is really nothing you can do to 'service' a battery.

[Bear]

yer what he said