Water goes sluggish before it freezes. Much could be said for the family pets this winter, heaven forbid. The same goes for chemicals too, including those managing the electrical and chemical reactions in your auto starter battery. You don’t want it dying on you suddenly. This post is about signs your car battery is on its way out and what to do.
Maintenance Could Delay Signs Your Car Battery Is Fading
It’s important to have your auto starter battery serviced regularly at your dealer or fitment center. Modern, lead-acid batteries seldom needs more than a quick inspection but that’s still a lot better than breaking down in a shopping mall or parking lot.
Cold weather also reduces the starter battery’s ability to hold charge. This means it is at its weakest, the Express says when we may need it most. The most worrisome of all signs your car battery is failing is when it can’t crank the starter motor over to generate sufficient spark. You may hear a clicking under the hood as the starter solenoid fails to engage the flywheel and turn it over.
Working Principles of 6 and 12 Volt Starter Batteries
More Signs to Concern You about Your Auto Battery’s Future
Problems with the central locking system, lights and electric windows may be warning signs the battery chemistry is ready to retire. However, this may also indicate a loose battery cable. Slacken it off slightly avoiding a short circuit, then twist it to cut through to the terminal. When you re-tighten it, you may find things are back to normal.
However, if you suspect the battery capacity is shrinking over a weekend, consider giving it a booster charge instead. Always read the maker’s instruction sheet first, and keep an eye on any battery under recharge. Your best defense is using the free battery checks fitment centers offer, as soon as you spot signs your battery has aged.
Remember to do your homework first, and have the check done by the store offering the best deal n your town. Prices can vary widely in the industry.
Related
How to Charge a Lead-Acid Battery Safely
Lead Sulfation & Practical Steps to Slow the Process
Preview Image: Bad Battery Let Me Down
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