I bought 2005 Honda Accord Coupe EX as a Certified Pre-owned from Honda dealership with 30k miles. I currently have 66k miles. (I don’t drive much)
I’ve never had a problem with the car. I’ve replaced oil, maintenance, tires, brakes but that’s to be expected.
My question concerns the car battery. I accidentally left lights on several times which led to my battery needing to be replaced.
AAA replaced battery. They only offer one battery. That battery failed about 14 months later. (No help from me leaving lights on). AAA prorated cost.
That battery failed within 4 months. AAA replaced for free.
So far so good (it’s been a couple weeks).
MY QUESTION: Would an alternator or a starter cause a battery to slowly fail? Or are these AAA batteries low end batteries?
Should I pay to have the dealership test battery, alternator and starter? Buy a better battery? Or wait and hope for the best?
I understand without seeing car, options are limited. I’m just hoping for insight to make a decision. Thank you in advance.
Would an alternator or a starter cause a battery to slowly fail?
If voltage output is too high it can fry the battery over time.
Or are these AAA batteries low end batteries?
I have had AAA batteries in 3 of my vehicles for years and have had no problem with them. There are only a few actual battery manufacturers and the various brands you see just slap their labels on.
I don't normally buy batteries at AAA but as a holdover from when I used to be on the road for business constantly driving long distances I still have their level of membership that includes a "free" replacement battery once per year along with long-distance towing service. If I need a battery for a car between those times I usually buy one at WalMart as they have the best prices.
Should I pay to have the dealership test battery, alternator and starter?
You should not be taking a 20-year-old car to the dealer for service. Also avoid chain shops such as Pep Boys, Midas, Firestone, etc. A good independent shop is preferable and many will check your battery and alternator at no charge. So will auto parts stores such as AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts.
MY QUESTION: Would an alternator or a starter cause a battery to slowly fail?
Alternator might. Starter can't
Or are these AAA batteries low end batteries?
I doubt it, and even if they were, no low end battery lasts 4 months.
Should I pay to have the dealership test battery, alternator and starter?
Absolutely not. This service is offered as a free courtesy by most part stores and battery dealers.
In fact, stay away from the dealership.
Buy a better battery? Or wait and hope for the best?
No and No. I doubt the battery is the problem.
Start with the test and go from there.
Make sure the cables terminals are clean and tight too.
One other reason might bet that you don't drive the car enough. Like humans, batteries need a little exercise. At least once every 1-2 weeks, take it out on the freeway for a 30 minute drive. This is to help charge the battery, not to mention get the other parts of the car moving.
