A dead battery is the most obvious sign there are battery problems. However, many times this situation is able to be avoided. There are warning signs to watch for with auto batteries to let owners know they need replacing.
Lengthy Engine Crank
When starting a vehicle, it takes a lot of power, and all this power is produced by the battery. Once a vehicle is started, its alternator is what keep batteries going. With an engine starting by using only a batteries power, there may be cranking more slowly of the engine when a battery is beginning to fail. The majority of times this happens once before a battery fails for good, making it important to notice this warning sign.
Electrical Component Issues
In addition to engines being powered, auto batteries need to produce enough power to run many different electric components. In today’s vehicles, there are several electric accessories including power seats, power windows, seats, dashboard lights, radio, windshield wipers, and headlights, among other things. All of which require a vehicle’s battery to supply them with electricity.
If any of these electronic components begin functioning erratically, check first for dirty battery terminals. If these appear clean, this may be a warning sign the battery needs replacing. When using more than one electrical component, pay special attention. For example, there may be an issue with auto batteries if headlights dim while switching the radio on.
Warning Light on Dashboard
The majority of vehicles have dashboard warning lights, which illuminate when batteries are not being replenished properly or another issue with the battery. A battery light is also an indicator of a possible alternator or electrical system problem.
Along with these warning signs, some other ones include swollen battery case, weird smell, and old age. If any of these warning signs is noticed on auto batteries, they should be checked out immediately.
For more information please visit Motor City Battery Company, or call us at Phone No. You can also follow them on Twitter for more updates.
