What are the Signs of a Bad Car Battery?
Don’t wait until you get in your car and try to start it to find out you have a bad car battery. As an observant driver, there are several warning signs that can help save you a lot of frustration and prevent an emergency car battery replacement.
So what are the signs of a bad car battery? Watch for these signs:
- Slow engine crank. A car that is hard to start or won’t start at all is the most common sign of a bad battery.
- Clicking sound when turning the key. If the engine doesn’t start, you may just hear a rapid clicking sound, signaling the available power is too low to crank the engine.
- Dim headlights. The headlights aren’t getting the power they need.
- Electrical problems. The electronic accessories, such as power seats, power windows, radio, dashboard lights, headlights, windshield wipers, and more, may not function properly.
- Dashboard warning light. In most cars, a dashboard warning light (typically in the shape of a car battery) indicates a bad battery. It could also mean that there is a problem with the alternator or another part of the electrical system. Ask a certified technician to inspect the electrical system.
- Swollen battery case. If the battery is consistently exposed to extreme temperatures (especially if it should freeze and thaw) the sides of the battery case can swell up. In this case, a car battery replacement will be necessary.
- Old battery. A car battery usually only lasts around four or five years, fluctuating based on exposure to extreme temperatures (hot or cold) and your driving habits. Have your battery tested frequently if it is getting close to the four-year mark.
- Loose battery terminals. If the battery terminals are not properly connected, it will seem as though the battery is dying. If the problem persists after tightening the terminals, it may be time for a car battery replacement.
- A light was left on. If your battery is good and there are none of the problems described above, it may have been that a light was left on for an extended period of time. A simple recharge may be all that is needed.
Remember to give your vehicle a little extra attention to notice any warning sign of a bad battery. Take care of a needed car battery replacement before you’re left stranded in the driveway or parking lot.
Are you wondering what are the signs of a bad car battery? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about a car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
Don’t wait until you get in your car and try to start it to find out you have a bad car battery. As an observant driver, there are several warning signs that can help save you a lot of frustration and prevent an emergency car battery replacement.
So what are the signs of a bad car battery? Watch for these signs:
- Slow engine crank. A car that is hard to start or won’t start at all is the most common sign of a bad battery.
- Clicking sound when turning the key. If the engine doesn’t start, you may just hear a rapid clicking sound, signaling the available power is too low to crank the engine.
- Dim headlights. The headlights aren’t getting the power they need.
- Electrical problems. The electronic accessories, such as power seats, power windows, radio, dashboard lights, headlights, windshield wipers, and more, may not function properly.
- Dashboard warning light. In most cars, a dashboard warning light (typically in the shape of a car battery) indicates a bad battery. It could also mean that there is a problem with the alternator or another part of the electrical system. Ask a certified technician to inspect the electrical system.
- Swollen battery case. If the battery is consistently exposed to extreme temperatures (especially if it should freeze and thaw) the sides of the battery case can swell up. In this case, a car battery replacement will be necessary.
- Old battery. A car battery usually only lasts around four or five years, fluctuating based on exposure to extreme temperatures (hot or cold) and your driving habits. Have your battery tested frequently if it is getting close to the four-year mark.
- Loose battery terminals. If the battery terminals are not properly connected, it will seem as though the battery is dying. If the problem persists after tightening the terminals, it may be time for a car battery replacement.
- A light was left on. If your battery is good and there are none of the problems described above, it may have been that a light was left on for an extended period of time. A simple recharge may be all that is needed.
Remember to give your vehicle a little extra attention to notice any warning sign of a bad battery. Take care of a needed car battery replacement before you’re left stranded in the driveway or parking lot.
Are you wondering what are the signs of a bad car battery? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about a car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
