Nobody wants to be stuck in the driveway due to a dead battery, but this common automotive problem always seems to strike at the most inconvenient times. When that happens, you have to change your plans, as your car won’t be going anywhere until it gets a jump. Fortunately, you can avoid this situation by making sure your car battery is in good condition, so look out for the warning signs of a bad battery.
Bad Car Battery Warning Signs
In many cases, a bad battery will offer some telltale indicators that it’s about to give out. If you know what to look for, you can catch a problem before it leaves you stranded, so don’t wait for the “check engine” light to come on to take action. Pay attention to your engine’s startup. If it struggles to crank, that could mean that the battery doesn’t have enough energy to power the starter properly. You might also notice that your headlights aren’t as bright as they should be, or that the electrical features of your vehicle aren’t as reliable. You can also inspect the battery itself, and if you see corrosion or a misshapen battery case, it could be time to replace that battery.
What Impacts Battery Life?
A good car battery can last for three years or even more in some cases, but there are also some variables that could impact its performance. The climate and weather where you drive can sap the battery faster than intended if the temperatures remain at extreme highs or lows for too long. The accumulation of corrosion or other harmful particles can also shorten its lifespan. If your vehicle’s charging system isn’t working properly, that could also lead to your battery expending more energy than it can replenish.
Car Battery Care
To help your battery last as long as possible, check under the hood to clean away any corrosion you see. When you drive, try to limit very short trips as well, and when you’ve reached your destination, make sure all the electronics have properly shut off to avoid draining the battery. If you’ve had your battery for a few years, take time to test its charge on a regular basis as well.
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David Scott Lee Crestview Buick GMC
If your vehicle is due for a battery replacement, schedule a service appointment with us to leave it to the experts.
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