Find the Best Car Battery Service at Kunes Auto Group of Mt. Carroll

You didn't leave a car door ajar or a light switched on. (We trust you.) However, your vehicle refuses to start. You attempt to ignite the engine, and all you hear is that dreaded clicking sound. This might be followed by competing declarations of "It's a dead battery" and "The alternator is the issue" from anyone nearby.

We can resolve the dispute. If you can jump-start your vehicle, drive it over to our service center. If you're unable to start it, then have it towed to us. We'll diagnose and repair your starting system or help you choose a new battery.

Our professional Kunes Service Center technicians take the time to explain your vehicle's condition, differentiating between urgent problems and those that can wait. We discuss the most suitable options for your budget and also provide a written estimate before conducting any repairs.

If your vehicle refuses to start, the issue is most likely related to your battery or ignition and starting system:

• Your battery is drained, but still in good condition:
  It's the best-case scenario: you accidentally left your lights on, or some other battery-draining feature. A jump-start will set you on your way, lesson learned.
• Your battery is too old to retain a charge: 
  It's time for a new battery. If your jump-start attempt fails, or your car won't start the next day, have your battery checked.
• Your starting system requires service: 
  It's not the battery. There's a mechanical issue preventing ignition, depleting your battery, or preventing your battery from charging as you drive.

If a single jump-start doesn't resolve your starting issues, have your battery professionally examined. If your battery is in good shape, it's time for diagnostic service, starting with your starter and alternator.

If your vehicle won't start with a fully charged and healthy battery, the typical culprits are issues with the starter, alternator, ignition switch, spark plugs, or fuses. It's also worthwhile to clean your battery terminals and connectors, if they're dirty or corroded, and see if your car will start. 

However, the only way to ensure your battery is healthy is to test it with a voltmeter. When your vehicle is towed to a Kunes Service Center, that's the first thing our professional technicians will examine.

When should a car battery be replaced?

A car battery should be replaced when its capacity drops below 12 volts, which occurs to most batteries after three to seven years of use. 

Here are some indicators that your battery is running critically low:

• Your battery won't accept a charge: You hear rapid clicks instead of your engine cranking, and jump-starting doesn't help. You'll need a new battery to get moving again.
• Your battery can't hold a charge: Jump-starting works, but you have to jump-start repeatedly. Replace your battery as soon as possible. You're at risk of being stranded.
• Your battery shows low voltage on a voltmeter.

How does testing a car battery work?

If you encounter difficulties starting your vehicle, request a car battery check appointment. Our Kunes Service Center technician will test your battery's voltage with a voltmeter and help you choose a new battery if necessary. If your battery is healthy, we'll diagnose the actual problem.

How do you test your car battery, if the car won't start?

The best way to thoroughly test your vehicle's battery is by taking it to our professional technicians at our Kunes Service Center.

How long does a car battery last?

Most car batteries last between three to seven years, depending on climate and driving habits. With such a broad time window for your battery to potentially fail, it's wise to incorporate battery testing into your regular maintenance cycle. Don't get stranded!

How long does it take to replace a car battery?

At Kunes, it takes about 20-30 minutes to replace a car battery on most vehicles. Our battery replacement service includes cleaning the battery tray and terminals to eliminate battery acid and other debris.

What size battery do I need for my car?

Your vehicle owner's manual will specify the size of the battery you need. Your local Kunes technician can answer any questions about the battery specifications for your make and model.

A vehicle not starting can be a frustrating experience. However, with Kunes Service Center, there's no need to worry. Their experienced technicians can diagnose and repair any issue with your starting system or help you choose a new battery if necessary. We take the time to explain your vehicle's condition, discuss suitable options for your budget, and provide a written estimate before conducting any repairs.

By regularly testing your battery and replacing it before it fails, you can avoid being stranded on the side of the road. Don't hesitate to contact Kunes Auto Group of Mt. Carroll Service Center for any of your vehicle's needs, from battery testing to replacement and beyond.