How Do I Know If I Should Replace My Car’s Battery?
Getting in your car to find your battery dead always seems to happen at the worst time. But when should you replace your car battery to prevent being stuck with a dead one? Auto Repair Pros can tell you how to spot the signs of a failing battery so you can get a replacement before yours fails.
Why Does a Car Battery Die?
Just like any other kind of battery, or any other car part, an auto battery will eventually wear down, usually after 3-5 years. But certain factors can cause the battery to deteriorate faster. Heat, for example. On one hand, heat can make car batteries more efficient by accelerating the chemical reactions that provide their power, but on the other, it shortens their lifespan. Because of this, car batteries in cooler climates may last longer than those in warmer climates. Automakers also take this into account, protecting the batter by giving the batteries heat shields, isolating them away from the main engine block, or even placing them towards the truck to remove them from the engine heat, which can reach, or even exceed 200℉. Vibration can also wear down the battery’s life, though most cars use some kind of secure hold-down hardware to minimize how much it takes.
Signs Your Battery Is Failing
When your battery is starting to deteriorate, it will show signs to let you know.
Signs From the Car
If you start to notice that your headlights are more dim than usual, that can be a sign that the car battery is straining. Other signs include hearing a clicking sound when you turn your key or press the button to start your car, the car struggles to start and has a slow turn over, or noticing that the electric components are struggling to work. One sign that may seem somewhat obvious is that the battery warning light on your dash may turn on.
Signs From the Battery
The battery itself may make it clear to you that it’s time for a replacement. If you have the ability to test your car battery’s voltage and find it lower than 12.6, then it is time for a new battery. If you are needing to jump-start your car frequently, your battery needs to be replaced. Auto batteries will start to emit sulfuric acid when they start to deteriorate, which will cause a bad smell. You may also find the case is bulging, which means the battery cells themselves are swollen and could possibly rupture or explode. If you find either the sulfuric acid or swollen batteries, they should be replaced immediately, as both can cause damage to your car and are fire hazards.
Car Batteries at Wilson Tire & Auto
Whether you are seeing signs of a failing car battery, or you just want to check on its health, Auto Repair Pros across Florida have your back. We handle auto maintenance and repair in our family business. Give us a call or come by one of our seven locations and let us take care of your car.
