How do I know my battery may need replacing?

There are a few signs that your car battery may need to be replaced. These signs include:

  • Slow engine crank

  • Dim dashboard light

  • A battery that is leaking, damaged, or has a rotten egg smell

  • A battery that is over 5 years old

If you have any concerns, Baker Ford Ludington offers a complimentary computerized battery test. Plus, each Motorcraft® battery we install features the latest technologies in design and engineering. They provide dependable power to today's high‐technology vehicles across a wide range of conditions.

How long should a car battery last?


A car battery typically lasts between 3 and 5 years. However, many factors can affect the lifespan of a car battery, such as climate, driving habits, and maintenance.


 

How do I properly maintain my car battery to prolong its life?

Proper maintenance of your car battery can help prolong its lifespan. Here are some tips:

  1. Keep your battery clean: Clean the battery terminals and connections regularly to prevent corrosion buildup that can weaken the battery's power.

  2. Avoid draining the battery: Avoid leaving your car's lights or other electrical components on for extended periods while the engine is off, as this can quickly drain the battery.

  3. Drive your car regularly: Take your car for regular drives to keep the battery charged. If you don't drive often, consider investing in a battery tender or maintainer to keep the battery charged.

  4. Store your car properly: If you're storing your car for an extended period, disconnect the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Alternatively, use a trickle charger to keep the battery charged while it's not in use.

Remember, each car battery is different, so it's essential to check your car owner's manual for specific maintenance guidelines. Regular maintenance can help extend your battery's life, but eventually, all car batteries will need to be replaced.

Baker Ford Ludington Battery Service

Your vehicle's battery.

Today's vehicles are loaded with technology. That's why it's more important than ever to ensure your battery operates at peak performance. At Baker Ford Ludington, we know exactly what battery is needed for your specific vehicle and can help guide you through what can be a somewhat complex process.

Battery Offers

Get a $20 rebate or earn 5,000 Ford Rewards Points with purchase and installation of a Motorcraft® Tested Tough® PLUS or MAX Battery.*

*Dealer-installed retail purchases only. Visually inspect and test battery using tester. Excludes hybrid battery test. Limit 1 rebate per vehicle. Not valid on prior purchases. Valid 7/7/26-8/31/26. Submit by 9/30/26 at Ford.com/Service-Rebates or by mail. To earn Points, activate Ford Rewards account within 60 days of purchase. Points have no cash value; see FordRewards.com for terms, including Points expiration. Allow 8 weeks for Points. See Service Advisor for details. Ford may change or discontinue this program at any time. Motorcraft® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company.

Ford Employees and Retirees - Get four $50 instant service discounts to use or share.*

*Active U.S. Ford Employees and Retirees only. Generate up to 4 PINs at FordServiceDiscount.com from 4/15/26-9/7/26 for personal use or to share. Limit 1 PIN per VIN. Receive a $50 instant discount on eligible maintenance services with a minimum $100 customer-pay repair order. Eligible services include oil changes, The Works®, brakes, batteries, tires, wipers, and filters. Requires purchase and installation of genuine Ford/Motorcraft® Parts or select name-brand tires. Valid only on Ford and Lincoln vehicles at a participating U.S. Ford Dealer, Lincoln Dealer, or Quick Lane® Store. Present PIN at write-up; prior authorization required. PINs expire 60 days after generation. See Service Advisor for full details through 9/7/26. Ford may change or discontinue this program at any time. Quick Lane®, Motorcraft®, and The Works® are registered trademarks of Ford Motor Company.

Motorcraft® Tested Tough® PLUS Batteries, $149.95 MSRP, or redeem 30,000 Ford Rewards Points.*

*With exchange. Taxes and installation extra. Warranty includes complimentary towing on dealer-installed batteries. Points have no cash value; see FordRewards.com for terms, including Points expiration. See Service Advisor for vehicle applications and limited-warranty details. Expires 9/30/26. Ford may change or discontinue this program at any time. Motorcraft® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company.

Motorcraft® Tested Tough® MAX Batteries, starting at $199.95 MSRP, or redeem 40,000 Ford Rewards Points.*

*With exchange. Taxes and installation extra. Warranty includes complimentary towing on dealer-installed batteries. Points have no cash value; see FordRewards.com for terms, including Points expiration. See Service Advisor for vehicle applications and limited-warranty details. Expires 9/30/26. Ford may change or discontinue this program at any time. Motorcraft® is a registered trademark of Ford Motor Company.

Have your battery tested at no charge.*

*Visually inspect and test battery using tester. Hybrid battery test excluded. See participating U.S. dealer for details. Ford reserves the right to change, modify, or discontinue this program at any time.

Earn and redeem Points on Ford Service with Ford Rewards.*

*To earn Points, activate Ford Rewards account within 60 days of qualifying activity. Points have no cash value; see FordRewards.com for terms, including Points expiration. Ford may change or discontinue this program at any time. **Limitations apply. Earn Points for the purchase of Ford, Motorcraft®, or Omnicraft™ Parts and associated labor at participating Ford Dealers. See FordRewards.com for terms and FAQ. Motorcraft® and Omnicraft™ are trademarks of Ford Motor Company. ?The Ford app is compatible with select smartphone platforms and available via download. Message and data rates may apply. Visit Ford.com for privacy notice.

Ford Pickup & Delivery

*Offered by participating dealers. May be limited based on availability, distance, or other dealer criteria. Excludes parts and repair charges. Nonoperational vehicles are not eligible and require Roadside Assistance. See participating U.S. dealer for details. Ford may change or discontinue this program at any time.

Why should I visit Baker Ford Ludington for battery replacement?

With over 47 million Ford cars, trucks and SUVs on the road today, it has never been more important to ensure your technician is familiar with your specific vehicle's battery needs. And no one knows your Ford better than Ford and the technicians at Baker Ford Ludington.

Other benefits of Baker Ford Ludington battery installation include:

  • Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts
  • Full‐service maintenance and repair facility
  • Parts and labor warranties
  • Clean, comfortable waiting areas with free Wi‐Fi
  • Shuttle service to and from your home
  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff

Questions About Batteries? Let us Help!

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