Does your Car Battery Need Replacing?
For many people, cars are an essential part of day-to-day life and without them, we’d be lost! Considering this, keeping an eye out for the warning signs of when certain things might be on their way out will help you stay one step ahead, so you don’t find yourself caught out and broken down on the motorway!
So, in this article we’re going to highlight all the tell-tale signs of when your car battery is nearing the end of its life.
Sluggish start
The usual cranking noise of the engine starting isn’t its usual punchy self and tends to take longer to fully kick in and start. You may even find it cuts out and you need to place your foot down on the gas pedal slightly to keep it going.
Low battery fluid
Monitor the battery fluid levels. If it looks like it is dipping below the energy conductor, it’s a good time to book the car in so the battery can be checked.
Engine light
When the battery begins to lose power, the engine light is likely to appear on your dashboard as a warning sign.
Battery leak
If the battery is leaking, it can lead to corrosion to the cable connections (the posts). If this is the case, the build-up of dirt and grime will need to be cleared away to prevent the car from having trouble starting.
Swelling of battery case
Excessive heat can cause the battery case to swell, as well as a faulty voltage regulator. As a result, it can lower the longevity of the battery life.
Age
A well maintained car battery can last for as long as five years. However, if they aren’t looked after they can last as little as three years. Once your battery has reached the three year mark, it’s a good idea to start to keep a closer eye on it and maybe get it checked on a yearly basis.
Now we’ve gone through the top tell-tale signs that your battery might need replacing soon, there are also a few others things to bear in mind when it comes to your car battery.
Battery draining
Batteries can drain overnight if: a power adapter plug is left in, a light is left on, the keys are left in the ignition or if there is a faulty electrical component.
Shorter journeys
Using your car for short journeys only (less than 20mins) can shorten the battery life as your battery will never have enough time to fully recharge.
Extreme temperatures
Scorching hot temperatures and freezing cold weather can take its toll on a car battery, so monitor it closely during these times and if you can keep your car in a garage throughout the winter, it is advisable you do this.
If you’ve noticed the warning signs for your car battery or if you’d like to have it checked out anyway to make sure everything is ticking along nicely, then please get in touch with us here at Auto Exhausts and Tyres. With experienced technicians on hand and happy to help, you’ll receive a faultless service at an affordable rate. Call us today for more information or to book your car in.
