How Do You Know When You Have a Bad Car Battery?

Nov 20, 2020

Close up of a mechanic replacing the car battery in a vehicle

Signs that Your Car Battery is Dying

If you are in a hurry to leave the house, the last thing you will want is a vehicle that doesn’t start up. Did something happen to the engine? Is the gas tank empty? Usually, the reason for a car not starting up is a dead battery. How do you know when you have a bad car battery? Here are some signs to watch for if you suspect that your battery is dying.

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The Engine is Slow to Start

One of the main concerns surrounding the health of a car battery is a slow-starting engine. The purpose of the battery is to power the engine and your accessories like the radio and air conditioning. When the battery is running low on power, it will have a hard time powering all of these components. If you notice that your car is taking longer than usual to start up, then it’s time for a new battery.

Electrical Problems and Dim Headlights

Just like the issue with the slow-starting engine, thernbattery could be having a hard time powering all of the electric components. Yournmay notice that your headlights are dimmer than usual with a bad battery.

Connectors have Corrosion

Even if your battery is charged, it needs to be able to send the power to the engine. If you notice a white substance on the metal connectors on your battery, then corrosion is preventing your battery from working properly.

The Battery is Old

Even if you take proper care of your battery, it will give out eventually. Typically, car batteries can last anywhere from two to five years depending on the climate that you are living in and whether you leave the lights on or your phone plugged in.

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Are you suspecting that your car battery is dead? We recommend taking it in to a mechanic to get it tested. If it’s dead, you’ll need a replacement as your battery will no longer charge.

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