Last Updated on May 26, 2023 by Paul S.
Are you concerned about the longevity of the battery inside your Jeep? That is very understandable as your car’s battery is arguably one of the more important items. The battery is what provides the electric power to start your Jeep and provides all the electricity to the other systems. As technology grows in our vehicles so does the demand for electricity. This short article will go over how long a Jeep Wrangler Battery should last and some other helpful items regarding your battery.
Table of Contents
How Long Does the Jeep Wrangler Battery Last?
Jeep Wrangler batteries from a stock vehicle can be estimated to last 3 to 5 years. There are a lot of variables that can change this estimate such as weather conditions, driving habits, maintenance habits, and typical use. For example, it is estimated that car batteries last a little longer in the northern US than in the southern regions. Read on for more information about your battery that could help you stay on the trail longer and save you some money!
Battery Maintenance
Since the battery could be the quickest item that needs replacing in your Jeep and also prevents you from even starting it, it is recommended to have the battery load tested every year after you have used it for two years if you live in the warmer southern states and after four years in the colder states. This test allows you to understand your battery’s ability to hold voltage while it is in operation.
Adding battery testing to your huge list of to-dos is not ideal but if you take your Jeep in for other maintenance items at the dealership or other repair shops they may already test your battery. It is good to check on that so you can avoid a trip for only a test.
It is also recommended to test your battery prior to a long road trip. There is nothing worse than ruining your vacation plans by sitting in the repair shop. To alleviate a little bit of that headache here are some national locations that will test your batteries for free.
We have no affiliation with these companies but wanted to make sure these options were understood by our readers.
6 Signs You Need To Replace Your Jeep Battery
- Corrosion is present at the positive and negative terminals. The positive terminal can be corroded with greenish blue or white substance and typically means the battery is degrading. The negative terminal is usually corroded with a whiter substance. This can be due to the lack of charging the battery such as if the Jeep is only doing short trips. A little corrosion should not be a concern and can be cleaned off following proper protocol.
- The engine is taking longer to start than normal. This is a big sign that your battery is really close to the end. Take action immediately.
- The vehicle electrical items are reacting slowly or weak. If your dashboard system flickers and seems to be a lot weaker than normal or your windows roll a lot slower this could be an indication that your battery is on a downward spiral.
- Your Jeep has been sitting for too long. Your battery recharges during your daily trips around town. If you happened to go on an extended trip your battery slowly loses its charge and attempting to restart it, drops it even more. A jump start is typically required but the life of the battery can still be in jeopardy. It is recommended to take your battery in for a test as soon as possible.
- The check engine light is on. The check engine could mean a lot of different things, but it could also mean your battery is low and has the potential to die.
- Battery gauge is showing voltage below 12.5. Your voltmeter on your car, the one with the picture of a battery with a – and + sign, should be reading between 14 and 14.5 volts while the car is running. If the voltage drops below 12.5 volts while the engine is on then you may need to charge it and it’s a good indication that there is a larger problem. It could be that your alternator is not working or your battery needs to be replaced.
Did you also know that your Jeep Wrangler can have a auxiliary battery? Check out our write up of what an aux battery is and just understand that when you change your main battery you might want to change your aux as well!
Security For Your Battery
A lot of new Jeep owners don’t realize this, but your hood does not have a lock like your old sedan or truck. Because of this, there is a higher potential someone can quickly take your battery. I don’t think it will be an issue most of the time but it’s an easy and cheap modification you can make.
What Is The Cost For A Jeep Wrangler Battery?
At the time of this article, the average cost of a battery at a typical auto part store ranges from $200 to $350. If a mechanic is installing this for your you can estimate another $80 to $150 for installation. Prices will vary from place to place, and dealerships are typically a little more expensive.
Conclusion
While your battery on your Jeep Wrangler can last 3 to 5 years it is best to understand that it depends on many variables. Do not forget about your battery when you take your car in for regular maintenance and simply ask them to test it for you while you are there to save you a trip. A lot of times a shop or the dealer will provide the test for free. As your battery gets older you will need to be aware of it a little more.
One tip is to set a reminder in your phone’s calendar as soon as you purchase a vehicle or buy a new battery. From my experience, it is no fun waiting for help to arrive on the trail or road because of a dead battery!