5 Signs When It’s Time for a New Car Battery
A car battery is an important component of your car. It starts the engine and powers all the electrical components of your car. Going anywhere without a fully-functioning battery can be risky. You may get stranded in dangerous places if the battery comes to an end.
There are a few key warning signs which indicate that your car’s battery life is coming to an end. ‘Check your engine light’ is the first factor can be your starting point. Observe how your vehicle behaves when it starts.
A Slow Starting Engine
Just like the other components of your car the components inside the battery wear out and lose their effectiveness. When it happens it takes the battery takes more time to create a charge for the starter and you will have to wait a few extra seconds for the engine to turn over. A slow start is a major indication of the battery problem.
Dim Lights and Electrical Issues
The electrical components of your car are powered by the battery. If it starts losing its charge it will have a hard time running these things at full power. The more things you plug into your car while driving– the faster it will die.
The Check Engine Light is On
Check engine light may not be necessarily about the battery. However, it may come on when your battery is out of juice. Consult with the manual and get your car tested by a professional to see if it is working at full capacity. You should get it replaced if it is not working to its full capacity.
A Bad Smell
Your car battery may leak gas due to damage or an internal short. If you smell rotten eggs when you open the hood, it could be due to a leaking battery. Get it checked and replace if necessary.
An Old Battery
When was the last time you replaced your battery? Generally, a battery last for 3-5 years. However, it may depend on many factors like your driving habits, electronic demands, and climate. It is a good idea to measure its performance regularly once it goes near or crosses the mark of 3 years.
