How much does a car battery for a Subaru cost?
The cost of a car battery for a Subaru can vary depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle, as well as the type of battery required. On average, a replacement car battery for a Subaru can range from $50 to $200, with most falling in the $100 to $150 range.
Factors Affecting Subaru Car Battery Costs
Several factors can influence the cost of a Subaru car battery, including:
- Battery Type: Subarus may require different battery types, such as standard lead-acid, absorbed glass mat (AGM), or lithium-ion batteries, each with varying price points.
- Battery Size and Capacity: Larger batteries with higher cranking amps (CCA) and reserve capacity tend to be more expensive.
- Battery Brand and Quality: Genuine Subaru-branded batteries or premium aftermarket brands will typically cost more than generic budget options.
- Labor Costs: The cost to have a mechanic or dealership install the new battery can add to the overall expense.
It's important to consult your Subaru's owner's manual or speak with a qualified mechanic to determine the specific battery requirements for your vehicle to ensure you purchase the correct replacement.
Where to Purchase a Subaru Car Battery
Subaru car batteries can be purchased from a variety of sources, including:
- Subaru Dealerships: Dealerships will have access to genuine Subaru-branded batteries and can ensure the correct fit for your vehicle, but they may charge a premium price.
- Automotive Parts Stores: Stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, or O'Reilly Auto Parts can provide a wide selection of aftermarket battery options at competitive prices.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Walmart, or battery-specific retailers can offer convenient online ordering and delivery, often at lower prices than in-store options.
When purchasing a replacement battery for your Subaru, it's always a good idea to research and compare prices from multiple sources to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.
What is the average life of a Subaru battery?
Subaru batteries typically last between 3 to 5 years, but this can vary depending on factors like climate, driving habits, and the type of battery. To maximize lifespan, it is important to have your battery regularly inspected and to be aware of signs of a failing battery, such as slow electrical functions or a rotten egg smell.
Factors that influence battery life
- Climate: Extreme heat and cold can both shorten a battery's life. Hot weather can cause fluid evaporation, while cold weather makes batteries work harder.
- Driving habits: Frequent short trips limit the time for the alternator to fully recharge the battery, which can lead to premature depletion.
- Electrical load: Modern cars with advanced electronics, like driver-assist systems and heated seats, place greater demand on the battery.
- Battery condition: A battery that is not tightly fastened can be damaged by vibrations.
Signs of a failing battery
- Slow or malfunctioning electrical components (like lights)
- A strange or "rotten egg" smell coming from the battery
- A build-up of corrosion (an ash-like substance) on the battery terminals
- The battery fails to start the car, often with a clicking sound
How to extend battery life
- Have your battery inspected at every service visit.
- Ensure the battery is securely fastened to prevent vibration damage.
- Consider replacing your battery every 3 to 4 years as a preventative measure, even if it seems to be working fine.
Does a Subaru require a special battery?
Whether you drive an SUV like the Subaru Forester, Outback, Ascent or Crosstrek, or have a car like the Subaru Legacy or Impreza, the battery you're looking for is here, either in-store or online. Does your Subaru need a special battery to run? Not at all.
Is $300 too much for a car battery?
Overall you can expect to pay somewhere between $100 and $300 on average for a brand-new battery to last you a few years.
Can I replace a Subaru battery myself?
You can do it yourself, or have a parts shop that will change out the battery, or AAA will do it (at home, work or a parking lot...). If it's under warranty, I'd have the dealer replace it.
