The bane of any car owner’s existence — a dead battery. One of the most common car problems is also simple to prevent or fix. As frustrating as it is to head out for work only to find that your car won’t start, there are also many signs you’ll notice from your vehicle before you’re left stranded. As soon as you catch an indication that it’s time for a new car battery, schedule an appointment with your mechanic to have it checked and replaced if necessary.
What Happens During a Battery Check?
Once you drive your car to an auto shop, the battery will be tested with the engine off. First, a thorough visual inspection will be done to look for signs of corrosion, damage, or leaks from the battery, as well as connecting wires. If necessary, corrosion will be cleaned from the terminals to help ensure an accurate reading. A tester will be connected to the battery to assess its voltage and overall condition. This will tell whether the battery simply needs to be recharged or it’s time for a replacement.
Look Out for These Signs it’s Time for a New Car Battery
Age, trouble starting your car, and electrical issues can all signal that it’s time for a new battery. Full diagnostics will involve checking other components in your car’s electrical system, including the alternator and starter motor depending on your symptoms. However, if you notice any of these signs from your car, a new battery may be on the horizon.
It’s Been a Few Years Since the Last Replacement
On average, car batteries need to be replaced every 3-5 years. However, this can vary depending on the type and brand of battery installed, the climate where you live, your driving habits, and your car care routine. If it’s been a few years and you notice any of the other symptoms in this article, there’s a good chance you need to have your car battery replaced.
The Engine Cranks When Starting Your Car
It should be easy to start your car. You hit the ignition or turn your key and the engine quickly turns over. If your engine cranks for a while before eventually turning over, it may be due to a bad battery. The ignition process depends on several components, including the starter motor, alternator, battery, spark plugs, and ignition coils. If any of these components is faulty, it can make it difficult to start your car. However, one of the most common causes of an engine that cranks before turning over is a lack of power from the battery.
Dashboard Lights Work But Your Car Won’t Start
Your car won’t start — but the dashboard lights still come on? This can point to either a battery with low charge or a faulty alternator. Though the only solution for a bad alternator is replacement, if a bad battery is to blame, you should be able to jump-start your car. The reason your dashboard lights may still come on is that there’s enough charge to power them, but it takes significantly more power to turn over the engine.
You Often Have to Jump-Start Your Car
Though you may have left your car’s light on overnight, leading to a dead battery, if you often need to jump-start your car, it may be more than just user error. As batteries age, they’re able to store less charge, making a dead battery more frequent, no matter what you do. If you’re having to phone a friend to help get your car started more often, it’s time to have your battery checked and possibly replaced.
There’s Visible Corrosion on Your Battery’s Terminals
Pop the hood of your car and take a closer look at the battery. If you have trouble locating it, use your owner’s manual. The terminals should be clear of corrosion, dirt, and other build-up. If you see a lot of build-up on the battery, you can clean it off with baking soda, water, and a brush — just make sure the engine isn’t running. This will help make it easier for power to make it to and from the battery. However, the more build-up, the more likely it is that you need to replace the battery. You can also check for film across the top of the battery case or bulging around the sides.
Visit AAMCO for Battery Services to Keep Your Car Running
Worried about your car battery health? Visit your local AAMCO Chicagoland and our expert mechanics will test your battery’s health, run diagnostics to find out if any other components related to the ignition or electrical systems are faulty, and handle any repairs or replacements necessary. Our Total Car Care services help ensure each essential system in your vehicle operates at its best. Schedule your appointment with us today!
