Stay On The Road With Prediction And Preemption - Signs Of A Failing Car Battery
It's often been said that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. When it comes to maintaining your car or truck, that statement couldn't be any more true. Preventative maintenance can help keep you out of a dangerous and challenging spot, such as going out to your vehicle to discover that your battery is completely dead.
Luckily, your car battery will display some obvious signs of distress in the run up to total failure. Below, you'll find a guide to some of those signs that represent consistent warnings that you need a new car battery. Keeping these warnings in mind can allow you to respond quickly and completely to any risk of your battery's failure.
Slow Starting
Perhaps the most stressful action for your car battery is in turning over the engine. Once the engine is running, it supplies enough power to take the stress off the electrical system. If you can't get it to that state, however, it's likely a sign of an issue.
Often times, before your battery gives out entirely and leaves you totally unable to start your vehicle, its performance will start to wane. If you notice that it suddenly takes multiple attempts or a longer crank in order to start your car, you should have it inspected and determine if you need a replacement battery.
Unusual Electronic Performance
Your battery may not control power to the drive train, but it does govern the ancillary electronic components of your vehicle. Given that the modern auto industry is dominated by automation and onboard computers, optimal performance from these features is a vital part of making sure your car or truck stays functional.
When components, such as the radio, the headlights, or even the dashboard indicators, begin to behave strangely, it can be a sign of a battery problem. Inconsistent current can deliver surges and jolts and eventually cause serious damage that may have been preventable with a quick response.
Dashboard Warnings
Dashboard warning lights were developed as a way for drivers to quickly diagnose problems with their vehicles and have adequate warning of a pending breakdown. Unfortunately, many people treat those lights as merely a suggestion and a nuisance and continue to go about their day without heeding sufficient warning. Make sure that you avoid that trap and pay proper respects to your dashboard lights. The battery has a dedicated warning indicator in most vehicles, and if it's illuminated, your battery requires your attention. Contact a company like Joy Automotive Products Inc for more information.
