The battery is the heart of your vehicle, so you must keep it in good condition to ensure your car’s smooth operation. If it fails, you may find yourself stranded on the side of the road or unable to start your car altogether. That’s why it’s crucial to know the indicators of a failing battery so you can take action before it’s too late. Here are four alarming signs that your automobile has before taking it in for auto repair:
Slow Engine Crank
When you turn the key during ignition, your engine should start quickly and smoothly. However, if you notice that the engine is cranking slowly or sluggishly, it’s a sign that your battery is struggling to provide the necessary power. This is one of the first signs that your battery is failing. If you ignore this warning sign, you may find that your car won’t start at all.
Dim Headlights
Your car’s headlights rely on the battery to provide the necessary power. If your headlights dim or flicker, it’s a sign that your battery is struggling to keep up. This is most noticeable when you’re driving at night.
If you also notice that your headlights dimmer, it’s time to check your battery. A failing battery can cause other electrical issues, such as dimming interior lights or a weak horn.
Corroded Battery Terminals
Battery terminals can become eroded over time, especially if you live in humid areas or places with extreme temperatures. Corrosion can cause a poor electrical connection, leading to various issues, including difficulty starting your car. If you see a white, powdery substance around your battery terminals, it’s a sign of corrosion. You can clean the terminals with a wire brush, baking soda, and water.
If it is severe, you may need to change the battery terminals at an auto repair shop or the battery itself.
Old Battery
Batteries have a limited lifespan, usually between three and five years. So if it is older than this, it’s more likely to fail. You can check the age of your battery by looking at the date code printed on the battery case. The code consists of a letter and a number. The letter represents the month (A for January, B for February, etc.), and the number represents the year (9 for 2019, 0 for 2020, etc.).
For example, a battery with the code C7 was manufactured in March 2017. If it’s already January of the same year, replace the battery before it fails.
Closing
Your car’s battery is a critical component of your vehicle’s electrical system. Keeping it in good condition ensures your car’s smooth operation. Exercise great caution if you see even one of the above signs. A failing battery can cause various issues, from difficulty starting your car and electrical problems to a full car stall, even on a regular drive.
By taking action early, you can avoid getting stranded on the shoulder of the highway or needing an expensive repair. Remember to have your battery checked regularly and to replace it when it reaches the end of its lifespan.
Get Full-Service Repairs from Hoover
Our services encompass a wide range of car maintenance and repair options. We provide brake service, oil changes, tire replacements, engine repairs, off-road vehicle repairs, and fleet vehicle services. Call 205-509-3085 now for auto repair in Hoover, AL.