Your vehicle’s battery is essential for starting the engine. It is also responsible for powering the lights, accessories, and electrical equipment in your vehicle. When the battery dies, so does your car. A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for a car to break down. So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your battery?
There are a few warning signs that your battery may be dying:
- The engine is slow to start. If it takes longer than usual for your engine to turn over when you try to start your car, it could be a sign that your battery is losing its power.
- Electrical malfunctions, such as electric seats, radio, and so on.
- The check engine light or battery light is on. If the check engine light comes on, it could be a sign of a problem with the charging system or the battery itself.
- The battery is more than three years old. Even if there are no obvious signs that the battery is dying, it’s a good idea to replace it every three years or so to be safe.
- Poor performance in cold or extreme heat, you don’t want to be stranded in either type of weather!
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time to take your car to an automotive repair center and have the battery tested. If the test shows that the battery needs to be replaced, make sure to do so as soon as possible to avoid being stranded with a dead car. And always use caution when working with batteries, as they can be dangerous. If you’re not comfortable changing the battery yourself, let an automotive technician do it for you.
Your vehicle’s battery is essential for starting the engine and powering electrical equipment in your car. If the battery dies, so does your car. Watch for warning signs like a slow-starting engine, dim headlights, or a check engine light that comes on. You should also replace the battery every three years or so to be safe. If you’re not comfortable changing the battery yourself, let an automotive technician do it for you at an automotive repair center like Perry Legend Collision Repair Center in Columbia, Missouri where you can also get free auto body damage estimates and mechanical repair quotes.