It's Not Just Age: Battery Failure Can Also Be Caused by This
JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Many components in a car play an important role but are often overlooked by owners. One of these is the battery, which is closely related to the electrical system and the Engine Control Unit (ECU).
Batteries have a lifespan of about two to three years, depending on usage. Conventional or wet batteries generally have a shorter lifespan than Maintenance Free (MF) batteries because they require regular attention and checks of the electrolyte fluid.
However, Mohan Kurniawan, Head of the Astra Peugeot Surabaya workshop, explained that many cases of battery failure are not caused by age, but by a lack of maintenance and improper usage.
“The car battery is the main source of electrical power that allows the engine to start and all electronic features to function normally. Therefore, battery maintenance is not just an additional routine, but an important part of maintaining performance and preventing electrical problems in the vehicle,” said Mohan in an official statement on Friday (15/5/2026).
According to Mohan, checks can be carried out using a voltmeter or battery tester. A healthy battery generally has a voltage of 12.6 volts to 12.8 volts.
If it is in the range of 12.4 volts, it means the battery is experiencing a decrease in power. If it is below 12 volts, this indicates that the battery needs to be checked further because it is at risk of failure or is unable to store power optimally.
Meanwhile, when the engine is running, the charging system from the alternator should ideally be in the range of 13.7 volts to 14.7 volts. If it is below this figure, it is possible that the charging system is not working optimally.
“Technically, low voltage indicates that the battery’s ability to store power is starting to decrease. This condition can be influenced by age, sulfation on the battery plates, or a less than optimal charging system,” he said.
To keep it in good condition, it is recommended that the car be used for at least 20 to 30 minutes on each trip so that the charging process by the alternator is optimal. For vehicles that are rarely used, owners are advised to start the engine at least two to three times a week to help maintain battery power stability.
The cleanliness of the battery is also an important part of maintenance. Make sure the terminals are clean because dirt or rust can inhibit the flow of electricity, making the starter system feel heavy and reducing electrical performance.
It is also important for vehicle owners to ensure that the charging system or alternator is working properly. This is because a faulty alternator can cause the battery to constantly lack power.
“Some of the common symptoms that appear include the battery indicator light coming on, the starter feeling heavy, and a new battery quickly losing power,” he said.
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