Your car battery is the lifeline of your entire vehicle. It not only starts the engine but also powers the majority of the electrical components within the vehicle. With that being said, there are a few key signs that are good indications your battery is dying. The first sign most people notice is their “check engine” light coming on. Once you get this notice on your dash, pay attention to the way your vehicle operates. It’s a good idea to visit your local mechanic to assess the check engine light to reduce further engine failure. In the meantime, Coburg Towing discusses a few telltale signs that your car battery is dying.
SLOW STARTING ENGINE
Over time, the components inside your battery will wear out and become less effective. When this happens it takes the battery longer to create a charge for the vehicle’s starter and you’ll have to wait longer for the engine to turn over. A slow starting engine is a sure telltale sign that your battery is dying.
CORRODED CONNECTORS
Corrosion on your battery terminals is one of the most common causes of a dying battery. Corrosion appears as a blue-green powder on the battery terminal and reduces the battery’s ability to receive a charge. Corroded terminals can lead to voltage issues and trouble starting your vehicle. PRO TIP: You can simply clean the terminals with a toothbrush and coca-cola.
Clicking sound when turning the key
If the engine does not crank at all, the vehicle will often make a rapid clicking sound, signaling the available power is too low to crank the engine. If your car won’t start and all you hear is a clicking noise, your battery is either almost or completely dead. Sometimes a jump start from another vehicle can give you the necessary power you need to start your vehicle. If this is the case, start your car and get it to a mechanic ASAP.
DIM LIGHTS & ELECTRICAL ISSUES
The battery powers all of the electronics in your vehicle, from your lights to your radio to your dashboard. If the battery is losing its charge it will have a harder time running these things at full power. The more things you plug into your car while driving, the faster your battery will die.
BAD SMELL
Damage to the battery or an internal short can cause the battery to leak gas. If you smell a rotten egg scent when checking under the hood, a leaking battery may be the issue. Take in your vehicle to get checked out ASAP and replace the battery if necessary.
Swollen Battery Case
The sides of the battery case can swell when the battery is exposed to extreme hot or cold temperatures. In the winter, the battery may discharge and freeze. This freezing, as well as swelling from excess heat, can cause an “electrically dead” battery. When this happens, the battery cannot be recovered and will need to be replaced ASAP.
OLD Car BATTERY
Over time, your battery will gradually lose the ability to hold the same charge. With use, you will start to notice signs of lower battery power after a few years or so. Keeping up with regular car maintenance can prolong the life of your battery, as well as catch a dying battery before it causes you real trouble.
Dead Car Battery? Need Roadside Assistance?
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