Most
people don’t realise when their car battery needs to be replaced until it’s too
late and their vehicle won’t start. There are warning signs that indicate your
car battery has reached the end of its life, and this article will show you
those signs so you know when it’s time to buy new car
batteries Sydney.
Starting Problems
If
your car won’t start, even after you give it a jump, one of three things could
be happening: The battery could be dead; corrosion may have built up on its
terminals; or your alternator may not be charging at all. The best way to know
for sure is to have your mechanic test your car for these issues.
Slow Cranking
If
your vehicle cranks slowly, it could be a sign that you need a new car
battery Sydney. This symptom is caused by
a weak or failing battery, which fails to provide enough current for your
starter. When your car takes longer than normal to crank, you may end up with
an engine that starts and immediately stalls, which can damage your engine.
Dead Battery
A
dead battery is usually a result of regular wear and tear, or it may be an
indication that your car’s electrical system is malfunctioning. In either case,
a jump start from another vehicle can provide you with enough power to get home
or to a shop where they can test your battery. If you don’t have jumper cables
in your trunk, go out and buy some before checking out what else might be going
on with your vehicle.
Headlights Dim When the
Engine Is Started
Most
modern vehicles use a computer-controlled alternator and battery, designed for
peak performance. The battery is charged by an alternator, which generates
electricity from motion, in other words, as you drive. If your headlights are
dimming when you start your car or shift into drive or reverse, it’s likely
that your alternator is failing. This can be dangerous in low-light conditions;
contact a mechanic immediately if you notice signs of an alternator problem.
Bulging On Top or Sides
of the Battery Case
Have
you ever picked up a screwdriver and noticed your car battery is bulging
slightly out of its case? If so, it might be time for a new one. This is a sign
that your battery has failed or is about to fail. It might also mean that acid
from inside your battery has leaked onto its exterior, which may cause further
damage if left unchecked. If you notice either of these conditions on top or
sides of your battery case, take your vehicle into auto shop for a quick
inspection and test drive.
Failure to Hold a Charge
If your car battery is not holding a charge for as long as it used to, then it might be time for a replacement. This could happen if you live in an especially cold climate or if you don’t regularly drive your car, which is essentially what happens when you store your vehicle.
