Starting issues

My 98 Grand AM SE has some starting issues. When I turn the key it struggles to start up. It has got progressively worse in the past 2 days. The car does start though and once started, it runs beautifully.

I had the alternator replaced a year ago, and no lights are on telling me to check the engine.

I'm not a car expect, but is this something I could repair?

Any suggestions on what might be happening before I take it to Meineke, would be greatly appreciated.

i'd start by checking the connections. like the battery terminals, where the positive(red) connects to the battery. Check the ground(black) wires on the engine block. If these are goodandtight then it may be time for a battery. You should be able to take it to any Auto Parts store and they'll probley check the battery, with a volt meter, for free. Part stores are able to check a variety of things these days, usually for free. Good Luck :)

Thanks for quick reply.

Out of curiousity, how long to car batteries usually last? I live in upstate NY, so the battery has taken a beating from the cold winters and hot summers.

Thanks.

i live in N Indiana and it gets mighty chilli here too, been hot as H**L here lately! :( My 99's battery lasted from the factory till last month,July. it was a delco gm factory one. that doesnt mean they all will last that long(6yrs) or some may last longer. Batteries lifes very and cold will drain one quick. Glad to help!