Can Cmos Battery Cause Computer Not Start / Fix Pc Loses Time Settings 4 Ways To Resolve The Problem Repair Windows - Can the cmos battery die or fail in 9 months, or can it be that it was a little bit dirty if there's a capacitor on that circuit, it may be shorting, and causing a problem, or dirt might cause a when the computer is not plugged into a wall socket, the battery has an estimated life of three years.