First, work out why it died
A battery goes dead for one of a few reasons: it's worn out, something was left on, the car sat too long, the charging system isn't keeping up, or something is draining it with the key off. The right fix depends on which one it was. A worn-out battery needs replacing; one that's just run down needs a charge; a bad alternator needs a mechanic.
That's why the tech tests before doing anything else. You get a straight answer, and you don't pay for a battery that wasn't the problem.
+ 01 Right now
What to do while you wait
- Turn off headlights, interior lights, the radio and anything plugged in
- Don't keep trying to start it; repeated cranking can make things worse
- If you're on the road, get to a safe spot, turn on hazards if they work, and stay clear of traffic
- Note the year, make and model, and where the car is, for the call
- If the battery is swollen, leaking or smells like rotten eggs, don't try to jump it
+ 02 The fix
Jump, charge or replace
If the battery tests healthy but drained, a jump start or a charge is all it needs, plus advice on why it drained. If it's worn out, the tech installs a new one on the spot. If the battery is fine and the alternator isn't charging, you'll hear that before spending a dime on a battery.
Questions about dead car battery
Can a completely dead battery be recharged?
Sometimes. A healthy battery that was drained by lights left on often recovers with a proper charge. One that's old, sulfated or was left flat for a long time often won't, and the test shows which.
How long should a car battery last?
Typically three to five years. In very hot climates, two to three is common.
Why did my battery die overnight?
Something left on, a car that sat, a battery near the end of its life, or a parasitic drain. If it happens more than once, a drain test is worth doing.