Starting your car will not be possible without a working car battery. That is why most people check their battery and other electronic components as soon as they experience starting problems. Read on to learn more about the weak signs of a vehicle’s battery and how to tell if you need to replace it soon.
The typical 12-volt car battery will last around 5-6 years before it needs to be replaced. Depending on your battery voltage, type, driving conditions, and level of care, it may last longer or it may die sooner. Sometimes, all you need is to jump-start your battery to get it going. But eventually, all batteries will lose their life and need to be swapped out. Here is how to tell if you have a dying car battery:
1. Vehicle Struggling to Start
If your car takes a while to start up, then it’s not worth it to sit through it every time. Pretty soon, you won’t be able to start your engine at all. If you’re grabbing the jumper cables a little too much, you should check your battery soon. There’s a good likelihood you need a new one.
2. Electrical Dashboard Warning Light On
If you see a symbol that looks like a car battery on your dashboard, it means your electrical system is failing. While it can point to an alternator or starter problem, you should have your battery tested at Complete Automotive Repair Specialists.
3. Electrical Malfunctions
If your power windows, headlights, windshield wipers, or door locks don’t seem to be working as well as they used to, it might be the battery causing these electronics to malfunction. Please have an experienced technician check out the wiring and battery health.
4. Warped Battery Case
A bulge or swollen car battery is a major cause for concern. Your battery case should be rectangular. If your car battery is oddly shaped, it means that it is overcharged. You should avoid driving until you’ve properly replaced your vehicle’s battery.
5. Corrosion
If your battery is caked with blue-green substances, specifically on the terminals, it’s a suitable time to change your battery. This leaking acid or corrosion can be wiped off, but there’s no promise that it won’t return again. If leaking battery acid is a common occurrence, your battery needs to be replaced soon.
The last thing we want for you is to be stranded somewhere with a dead vehicle battery. If you notice any of the red flags mentioned above, we invite you to bring your car to Complete Automotive Repair Specialists for a battery check. Trust our team to handle all your electrical repairs!