Did you know that car batteries are operated using lead and acid? While these two ingredients are deadly to humans, they allow our cars to work day in and day out.
However, nothing lasts forever, so it’s important to make sure your car battery is in tip-top shape.
Do you know the signs that your car battery is dying? Keep reading to learn all about how to avoid being stuck on the side of the highway with a dead battery.
1. A Rotten Smell
Have you ever asked yourself, “Should I get my car battery replaced?”
If you open your vehicle’s hood and smell something that reminds you of a rotten egg salad sandwich, then this is most likely due to a leaky battery. This is a safety hazard that needs fixing as soon as possible.
Just be sure to wear protective gloves if you plan on replacing the battery yourself. However, it’s always better to hire a seasoned mechanic.
2. A Mishappen Battery Case
Another sign of car battery problems is if the battery case has warped. This can happen after the battery has been exposed to really hot or cold temperatures, such as during a bad winter or after a road trip in the summer.
Simply put, a healthy battery is a rectangular one.
3. There’s a Warning Light
One of the clearest signs of a bad car battery is if the battery light or engine light is on.
Keep in mind that this could be a sign of a different electrical problem. This is why it’s best to bring the car to a mechanic if the light has turned on.
4. The Terminals Have Corrosion
Are you still wondering how to tell if a car battery is dying?
Another sign to watch out for is corrosion. It’s good to get in the habit of popping the hood at least once a week to check the car battery terminals. If there’s a gray or white substance on them, that’s probably due to built-up corrosion.
5. The Battery Is Aging
Depending on the brand of your battery, it will last for about 3 to 5 years. It’s worth remembering the year your battery was installed. That way, you can be sure to give it a check-up.
Over time, you may notice that electric components in your car are not working as well as they should. Everything from the headlights to the radio is powered by your car’s battery and can start acting up if there’s a problem.
Beware of the Signs Your Car Battery Is Dying
Now that you’ve learned about the signs that your car battery is dying, you can stay on top of it and avoid being stranded in a vehicle that doesn’t work.
It takes more than a fresh battery to have a safe and reliable car. There are plenty of ways you can ensure that your vehicle lasts a long time. If you want to learn more tips and tricks related to automobiles, be sure to bookmark our website.
