Why Battery Testing Matters: Save Time, Money & Hassle
- by Joe Weber - updated on 6/18/2025
Is your car slow to start? Are your electronics acting up? It could be your battery—and I'm not just talking about the one in your car. Batteries are essential to everything from vehicles and lawn mowers to UPS systems and emergency lighting. The problem is, you often don't know a battery is failing until it's already dead. That's why regular battery testing is so important.
At Batteries Plus, we offer free battery testing at most of our locations across the country, helping you avoid unexpected power failures. Whether you're worried about your car battery, boat battery, or something else entirely, we've got you covered.
What is Battery Testing?
Battery testing measures a battery's voltage, cold cranking amps (in vehicles), and overall condition. It helps determine whether the battery is still in good shape, needs to be recharged, or should be replaced altogether.
You can avoid getting stranded with a dead vehicle battery or experiencing surprise downtime in your essential electronics by checking your battery's health.
Why You Should Test Your Battery Regularly
Batteries degrade over time—sometimes gradually, sometimes suddenly. Here's why regular testing matters:
- Avoid Breakdowns: A failing car battery often gives little warning.
- Protect Equipment: Weak batteries in medical or security systems can cause critical failure.
- Save Money: Catching a weak battery early can save you from emergency replacements or repairs.
- Peace of Mind: Know your battery is in good shape before a road trip or power outage.
Pro Tip: Car batteries tend to last 3-5 years. If yours is older than that, it's time for a test.
What Types of Batteries Can Be Tested?
At Batteries Plus, we test a wide variety of battery types, including:
- Automotive Batteries: For cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles & RVs
- Powersport Batteries: For ATVs, snowmobiles, jet skis, and more
- Golf Cart Batteries: For gas and electric golf carts
- Lawn & Garden Batteries: Riding mowers, tractors, and yard equipment
- Marine Batteries: For boats and personal watercraft
- UPS Batteries: Backup batteries for business systems
- Generator Batteries: For home or business backup generators
- Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Batteries: Used in alarms, exit signs & mobility devices
If you're unsure what kind of battery you have, just bring it in—we'll take care of the rest.
How Battery Testing Works at Batteries Plus
Our battery experts use professional-grade testers to analyze your battery in just a few minutes. Here's what to expect:
- Visual Inspection: We check for corrosion, swelling, or leaks.
- Voltage Test: Measures the current state of charge.
- Load Test or CCA Test: Simulates use to assess real-world performance.
- Results Review: We'll walk you through the results and offer guidance.
If your battery is in good shape, we'll tell you. If it needs to be replaced, we can help you find the right replacement battery for your vehicle or device and even install it (available on most automotive vehicles).
How Often Should You Test a Battery?
We recommend testing your car battery:
- Every 6-12 months, especially if it's more than 3 years old
- Before long trips
- When you experience electrical issues, like dimming lights or trouble starting
Other types of batteries (like SLA, golf, or marine) should be checked at the start of each season or per manufacturer guidelines.
What If My Battery Fails the Test?
If your battery isn't holding a charge or has dropped below safe voltage, it's time to replace it. Batteries Plus carries replacement batteries for:
- Cars, trucks, motorcycles & RVs
- Boats, ATVs & lawn equipment
- Emergency systems & UPS backups
- Watches, hearing aids, and mobility scooters
If you are like me and are stuck in your ways with a digital camera or even a film camera, we've got you covered there, too.
Hard to find batteries are no match for us. If you have a device with a battery that you can't find, bring it in; the experts in charge at Batteries Plus will find what you need and get you on your way!
Batteries Plus Recycles Used Batteries
We also recycle old batteries responsibly at every location, helping keep harmful materials like lead and acid out of landfills. Whether you're replacing a car battery, a sealed lead-acid battery, or even smaller household batteries, bring them to your local Batteries Plus store and we'll ensure they're disposed of safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.
Get Your Battery Tested for Free
Battery issues don't have to catch you off guard. Stop by your nearest Batteries Plus for a free battery test today. We'll help you understand what's going on and get you powered up again—fast.
Frequently Asked Questions About Battery Testing
Q: How long does a battery test take?
A: Most tests take less than 5 minutes.
Q: Do I need an appointment?
A: No appointment is needed. Just stop by your local store.
Q: Will testing damage my battery?
A: Not at all. Our tests are non-invasive and completely safe.
Q: Is battery testing really free?
A: Yes! It's 100% free and available at most Batteries Plus locations.