Warning Signs Of A Failing Car Battery You Shouldn’t Ignore

Every car owner knows that the battery is a vital part of their vehicle. It powers everything from the ignition system to the vehicle’s lights and electrical components. But like all parts of a car, batteries don’t last forever. Over time, they lose their ability to hold a charge and need to be replaced. But how do you know when your car battery is failing? Here are some warning signs you shouldn’t ignore.

Dim Headlights

Your car’s headlights are powered by the battery. If your lights are dimmer than usual, it could be a sign that your battery is losing its ability to provide sufficient power. This symptom is especially noticeable during the start-up phase when the battery also needs to provide enough power to start the engine. You should also check for any visible signs of corrosion on the terminals.

Slow Crank

When you turn the key in the ignition (or push the start button in newer models), the battery supplies power to the starter motor to crank the engine. If the battery is weak, you might notice that the engine cranks more slowly than usual. This slow cranking is often the first sign that your battery is on its way out. You want the engine to crank quickly and normally.

Clicking Sound When Turning The Key

If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, but the car doesn’t start, it’s a clear sign that the battery isn’t able to provide enough power to the starter motor. This clicking sound is caused by the starter solenoid trying to engage, but it doesn’t have enough power to turn the engine over. The battery needs to be replaced.

Needing To Press The Gas Pedal To Start

In some older models, you might find that you need to press the gas pedal to get the car to start if the battery is weak. This is because the battery isn’t able to provide enough power to the fuel injectors to start the engine. This is a sign that the battery needs to be replaced.

Backfiring

A weak battery can cause intermittent sparks. These sparks can ignite the fuel in the cylinders at the wrong time, causing a backfire. While backfiring can be caused by other issues as well, a failing battery is one of the potential causes. You should have your battery checked if you’re experiencing backfires.

‘Check Engine’ Light

In some cars, a weak battery can cause the ‘check engine’ light to come on. This is because the car’s computer is not getting enough power from the battery to operate properly. If your ‘check engine’ light comes on without any other symptoms, it’s worth having your battery checked as a possible cause.

General Electrical Problems

The battery provides power to all the electrical components in your car. If you’re experiencing any kind of electrical problems, from your dashboard lights to the radio not turning on, it could be a sign that your battery is failing and needs to be replaced.

Old Battery

If your battery is more than three years old and you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, there’s a good chance that your battery is the problem. Most car batteries last between three and five years, so if yours is within this age range, it’s a good idea to have it tested. A good battery will last much longer if it’s well-maintained.

How To Maintain Your Battery

• Your car battery needs to be kept clean and free of corrosion. You clean it with a mixture of baking soda and water or white vinegar. Make sure not to damage the terminals while cleaning as this can cause further problems.
• You should also check the terminals for signs of damage or loose connections. Then make sure that the battery is securely fastened and not moving around in its compartment.
• It’s also important to keep your battery charged. Check the charge levels and top them off if needed. If you don’t use your car often, consider investing in a trickle charger to keep the battery charged while it’s not in use.
• Finally, make sure you top up the water level once every couple of months (if applicable). Your owner’s manual will tell you how to do this.
• Don’t wait until your car won’t start before changing your battery. Closely monitor its performance and make sure it’s maintained regularly. If you experience any of the symptoms above, it could be a sign that your battery is failing and needs to be replaced.

Contact Eastern Shore Toyota To Service Your Car Today

A failing car battery isn’t something to ignore. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s important to have your battery tested and replaced if necessary. Not only will this prevent you from being stranded with a dead battery, but it can also prevent damage to other electrical components in your vehicle. Keep an eye out for these warning signs and take action as soon as you notice anything unusual. And remember, if you’re not comfortable testing or replacing your battery yourself, it’s always best to take your car to a professional.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues or need servicing your car, come to Eastern Shore Luxury. Our experienced technicians can help diagnose and fix any issues with your battery or other car components. Contact our service center today to get started!