Your vehicle's battery is an essential, silent component, and because it's silent, it's often forgotten until the day it decides not to work. A dying battery can leave you stranded at the most inopportune times; it can even be dangerous for you and your passengers in certain circumstances. We invite you to learn more about what you need to know about your battery. These key indicators signal that your battery may be on its last legs, helping you avoid the inconvenience and frustration of being stuck on a Reese, Michigan, road with a vehicle that fails to start.
Slow Engine Crank
When you turn the ignition key, a healthy battery powers the starter motor, and your engine springs to life. However, if your engine is taking longer than usual to start, it's a clear sign that your battery is struggling. The slow crank is often more noticeable in cold weather, but don't ignore it because the temperatures around Reese, Michigan, drop. It's a sign that your battery is on its way out.
Dimming Headlights and Electrical Issues
Your car's electrical system depends entirely on the battery. If your headlights are dimmer than usual, especially when the car is idling, it strongly indicates that the battery is losing charge. Also, if you experience issues with your car's infotainment system, if the power windows are responding slower than usual, or if there are other technology issues, these could be signs of a weakening battery.
The Check Engine Light Comes On
Most modern cars have a check engine light that can indicate many issues, including problems with your battery. If this light comes on, it's a good idea to have your battery checked as part of your diagnostic workup when you visit our service center.
A Swollen Battery Case
Check under the hood to learn more about your battery. A battery case that appears swollen or bloated is a physical sign of a failing battery. This bloating can occur due to excessive heat or cold exposure, which affects the battery's internal components. If your battery looks as swole as that guy hitting the gym a little too hard, it's time for a replacement.
The Age of the Battery
The average car battery lasts between 3-5 years. If your battery is approaching this age, monitoring its performance is wise. Even without visible signs of deterioration, an old battery can fail unexpectedly. Regular checks at this age can save you a lot of hassle later.
Corroded Connectors or Bad Odors
Check the battery terminals for signs of corrosion; it will look like a white, ashy substance. Corroded terminals can lead to voltage issues and trouble starting your car. Additionally, if you notice a rotten egg smell or sulfuric odor around the battery, it indicates a leaking battery, which is a serious issue.
The Car Has Been Sitting Idle
If your car hasn't been driven for an extended period, the battery may have lost its charge. Batteries need to be used regularly to maintain their charge. If your vehicle doesn't start after sitting for a few weeks or more, the battery needs to be recharged and, in some cases, may need to be replaced entirely.
Prevention and Maintenance
The best way to avoid being stranded with a dead battery is through regular maintenance. Regular check-ups, especially before long trips or extreme weather conditions, can save you from unexpected battery failures. In addition, our service center provides certified battery service to ensure its health and longevity.
Contact Our Service Center Online for Assistance
Whether it's time to have your aging battery replaced or you suspect it may have a leak or other structural issue affecting its performance, feel free to visit us. We also offer quick and affordable battery testing so you'll know when your battery is experiencing issues or is nearing the end of its natural life span. Our team is factory-trained and can easily replace your battery with a genuine OEM part. Take advantage of our online form to schedule your battery service appointment. We look forward to seeing you at Burt Watson Chevrolet soon.