Have you ever experienced this? You went out for a simple errand, like a trip to the grocery store. You were inside for half an hour.
When you walk back out to start your car, you hear it: the dreaded clicking. Instead of your engine roaring to life, your battery dies a squeaky death. Then, you’re left praying that somebody will help jumpstart the battery.
If you’ve ever had this experience, you’re not alone. A dying car battery is one of the most common vehicle problems.
However, if you know the signs, you can tell when your battery may need replacing. In this article, we’ll explore the top five signs that your battery is giving out. Let’s get started!
1. Common Vehicle Problems: Slow Starts
If you notice that your car is often slow to start, it could indicate that you need a new car battery. Typically, this problem has a few additional tip-off signs. For example, you may hear weird noises whenever you turn your key.
Alternatively, you may notice that your lights begin to flicker. These issues indicate battery problems.
2. Frequent Jumpstarts
Does your battery die so often that you have to carry jumper cables everywhere you go? If so, it may be time for a new battery.
Regular jumpstarts indicate that your battery is wearing out and often prematurely. If it happens frequently, it may be best to check your warranty and have the battery replaced.
However, user errors can also cause the battery to die. One common example of this is leaving your lights on. So, consider taking your car to professionals to learn ways of car battery charging before purchasing a new battery.
3. Thick Corrosion
How frequently do you look at your car battery? If it’s not often, maybe start checking it once every week.
Over time, corrosion can develop on your battery terminals. The positive terminal, in particular, can become prone to this development. Corrosion development typically stems from acidic fumes in your battery that lower the device’s efficiency.
In such cases, cleaning the battery is only a temporary solution. Replacing it would prove more effective.
4. Sluggishness With Seasonal Changes
Do you ever feel weighed down by seasonal changes? Sometimes extremely hot or cold temperatures can drain you of all energy.
You may be surprised to learn that the same is true of your car. Extreme heat can cause the water in your battery’s fluids to evaporate, allowing corrosion to build.
On the opposite extreme, cold temperatures can cause your engine oil to move slowly. These issues often impact older batteries, making it best to replace them.
5. Having an Old Battery
If you’ve had a battery for over three years, it’s practically as old as a biblical patriarch. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it can’t perform.
If you don’t want to pay for a replacement, consider taking it in for annual checkups. Otherwise, it’s better to get a newer model.
Replacing Your Battery
If you constantly have vehicle problems, replacing your battery could be the best solution. Talk to a car professional today to determine what’s causing your issues!
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