The car battery is a critical component in starting and powering a car. It provides the electricity needed to get all of the car’s electrical components to work. However, like any other battery, they can’t last forever and they need to be replaced from time to time. The next are the 5 signs you need to replace your car battery.
What Is a Car Battery?
A car battery is a rechargeable one maintained by the alternator and used to start a car. It gives the electrical current needed to the electric-powered starting motor, which then starts the internal combustion engine powered by chemicals. It also can act as a surge protector for the car’s computer and can give power to the stereo, lights, and windshield wipers when the engine is off.
There are four components of a car starting system:
- Battery
- The ignition switch
- Starter motor
- Starter relay
5 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Car Battery
#1 Difficulty Turning Over The Engine/Starting The Ignition
One of the most obvious signs your battery may be wearing out or faulty is if you’re having issues starting your car. Over time, the components of a car battery can wear out and be less effective. Whenever this happens, the battery takes longer and longer to get a charge from the alternator. This means you probably need to wait a few more seconds for the engine to turn on.
However, you don’t want to wait for the battery to die completely before you replace it. This could easily turn into a non-starting engine. If notice your car has a slow or wear start, it is most likely your battery. If you hear a clicking sound whenever you try to turn the engine over, your car battery is probably dead. Make sure you take your car to your trusted auto shop as soon as you see this sign.
#2 Lighting Issues and Dashboard Lights
Always keep an eye on your check engine light. If suddenly the warning lights on your dashboard are on, you should never ignore them. This indicates that there is a battery problem. If could mean the alternator is not giving charge to it, or that the battery is weak or worn down. It is very important to consult with an experienced mechanic. Even if the signaling means its an issue unrelated to the battery, a mechanic can test the battery and make sure it is working properly.
If your battery is failing you may notice dim headlights. A worn-out battery won’t be able to fully power a vehicle’s components like it normally does. If your headlights seem dim and weak, especially when the engine has started, it can mean your battery is about to die.
Interior lights can also appear more dime than normal or they can start flickering when the car is starting or idling. Any unusual activity from your car’s lights can be dangerous, so make sure you get your vehicle checked.
#3 Electrical Malfunctions
If your door locks or power windows suddenly are not responding normally, your battery may be weak. If you are having issues with your electrical seats or the car’s stereo, this can also mean there is an issue with the battery.
If the car battery starts to weaken, it won’t be capable to power them as well as it normally does. Test your electronic components and see if they are having any issues. If there is any strange activity involving electrical components you need to get your car checked out.
#4 Poor Performance in Winter Conditions
Generally, car batteries don’t do well in the cold. People that live in places with rough cold weather conditions must be extra mindful of their car battery’s health during the winter. The car battery can freeze if it gets cold enough. In cold weather, your car battery demands maximum current due to slow-moving engine oil. This can quickly drain the battery since it requires a lot more power to start the engine.
During the winter, if you see your car not performing well when you start it, it is possible your battery is weakening. A new battery can handle the cold weather better, so it is always a good idea to have your car battery replaced ahead of the winter season.
#5 Strange Smells
If you start smelling a strange new smell in your car, it could be a sign of a battery that is starting to fail. A smell similar to rotten eggs indicates that the battery has a gas leak.
Batteries have sulfuric acid that can start leaking if the battery is damaged. Also known as outgassing, this acid can be very dangerous and can corrode or damage other parts of your car. If this happens it can be much more expensive to have it repaired than your battery.
Contact Us Today!
If you see any of these signs, you probably need a car battery replacement. Contact Sudden Impact Auto in Las Vegas today. We offer general maintenance services and offer way more. Call us today at 702-457-3002 for a free estimate.
