You can purchase a used car battery at a junkyard or salvage yard. It is certainly cheaper than a new one. However, is this a good idea? How reliable is a used battery? Should you err on the side of caution and spend a little more for a new one? This is especially a pertinent question with respect to VW and Audi models.

The Truth About Used Car Batteries

We can’t say that you should never purchase a used car battery. We do, however, recommend buying a brand-new replacement to avoid the battery’s dying just months down the road. Nevertheless, we know that some people on a tight budget will opt for a used battery. If you decide to go this route, then be mindful of the pointers below.

Know the Battery’s Age

Look up the date stamp on the battery. The date isn’t written in the typical format. The stamp includes a letter followed by two digits. The letter ranges from A to L and indicates the month. A is for January, B is for February, and so on. The two digits indicate the year. A code like E15 means the battery was manufactured in May, 2015. We suggest a battery no more than 12 months old.

Check for Corrosion

Actively check the battery for green or orange corrosion. While corrosion can appear anywhere, it often appears around the terminals. Avoid batteries that have extensive corrosion present. This is an indicator that the battery does not have much juice left.

We Supply New Car Batteries

We have on inventory new batteries for Audi and VW vehicles. With summer here, you may also consider an RV or truck rental for a pending travel plan. Contact Buttera Motors if your German vehicle is exhibiting signs of a dying battery. Buying a used car battery is possible, but it’s not always a good idea.

Car Battery Inspection and Replacement

VW and Audi service in Bothell, Bellevue, Kirkland, Kenmore, Redmond & Woodinville