While flashlight batteries have an expiration date, car batteries don’t. The “expiration date” isn’t the date posted on a car battery. The date of manufacture is what’s posted on a car battery.
Be careful not to misinterpret the date on a car battery. It is not the expiration date. | Image Source: Richard McCuistian
You’ll never find the expiration date on a car battery because there isn’t one. Instead, there’s a date of manufacture.
The date of manufacture is the most common date you’ll find. It’s usually printed as a sticker, stamped code, or engraved on the case. Formats vary by brand, but common examples include:
“B23” = February 2023 (B = February, 23 = 2023)
“0322” = 3rd week of 2022
“7KZ” = October 2017 (K = October, 7 = 2017)
There is no true expiration date posted on a car battery. Car batteries don’t have a fixed expiration date because their lifespan depends on:
Storage conditions (heat, humidity, charge level)
Usage patterns (frequent short trips vs. long drives)
The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.
Richard McCuistian has worked for nearly 50 years in the automotive field as a professional technician, an instructor, and a freelance automotive writer for Motor Age, ACtion magazine, Power Stroke Registry, and others. Richard is ASE certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.
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