We have received several inquiries lately at FQS Battery, asking for assistance when a recently purchased car battery has failed. But beware, we are talking about used batteries. And well, we won’t say we’re not surprised that they ask us how they can claim, but a used battery can involve multiple problems. In this article, we will analyze different minor details involved in the decision to use a priority element like a battery for your vehicle, second-hand.
When a car battery starts to fail, the first option that comes to mind is to buy a new one. However, sometimes a more economical option is sought. This is where used and/or reconditioned batteries come in. But is it really worth buying a used battery? Let’s look at the pros, cons, and in which cases it might be advisable.
What is a reconditioned battery?
A reconditioned car battery is one that has been restored to recover part of its original capacity. This may include cleaning the terminals, replenishing the electrolyte, and charging. These batteries are usually sold at a lower price than a new one.
What is an unreconditioned used battery?
These are batteries for sale on various digital platforms where used products are bought and sold. And in many cases, they are not reconditioned. They have simply been uninstalled from a vehicle and put up for sale. At most, they have been wiped down to clean their exterior appearance. However, no prior check of their condition has been carried out, nor has a recharge been performed. Between users, the warranty is null or non-existent.
Advantages of Buying a Used Battery
- Lower price: A reconditioned battery can cost between 30% and 50% less than a new one.
Disadvantages and Risks of Buying a Used Battery
- Reduced lifespan: Although reconditioned, a used battery has already lost part of its original capacity, so its duration will be shorter than a new one.
- Limited or non-existent warranty: Some stores offer a warranty, but it is usually much shorter than that of a new battery.
- Risk of unexpected failures: As it is not completely new, it could fail at any time without prior notice.
- Variable quality: Not all reconditioned batteries undergo an adequate restoration process, which can affect their performance.
- Used: Second-hand batteries that are not reconditioned offer even fewer guarantees, durability, and performance than reconditioned batteries.
- Apparent savings: Although it may initially seem like a cheaper option, its short lifespan and the risk of additional breakdowns can make the savings insignificant or even costly.
- Higher probability of failures in extreme conditions: Used batteries are more prone to failure in intense cold or extreme heat, increasing the risk of running out of power at the worst possible moment.
In which cases is it worth buying a used battery?
Buying a used battery might be advisable in the following cases:
WE REGRET TO INFORM YOU THAT FQS BATTERY FINDS NO SITUATION IN WHICH CHOOSING A USED, RECONDITIONED OR UNRECONDITIONED, BATTERY IS WORTHWHILE.
Reasons
Although there may be economic savings when buying a used battery compared to a new one, from its short lifespan to the breakdowns it can cause, the actual savings are insignificant or may even lead to a very expensive repair.
Furthermore, the probability of it failing at the most critical moments or under more complex thermal conditions is infinitely higher than the probability of failure compared to a new battery.
CONCLUSION
Used batteries can be an alternative, but they are a completely inadvisable option in all cases. If you are looking for a battery, it is always best to invest in a new one.
