MotivWerks is going to list the signs of a dying battery below. We would be happy to test your car, truck, or utility vehicle’s battery to see if it is unable to hold a charge. If it is, it’s time to replace it. Generally, batteries last three to four years before they need to be replaced.
Illuminated Battery Light
The battery light will turn on when you first start your automobile, but it should turn off fairly quickly. If it doesn’t turn off, or if it turns on while you are driving, the engine control module is letting you know that there is a problem with the battery. This light will also turn on if there’s a problem with the alternator. Take this warning seriously, and head straight to our shop.
Difficulty Starting the Engine
Naturally, if your battery is dying, it will be difficult to get your car’s engine started. If you have to jump-start the battery frequently, it is no longer holding a charge. Instead of continuing to jump the battery, come to our shop and let us replace it with a new one. This will prevent the danger of being stranded somewhere without the ability to get your car started.
Electrical Issues/Dim Lights
You may also start to have electrical problems in your vehicle such as dim lights. This can be a sign that the battery is struggling to produce power. Consequently, if you fail to have the battery tested and replaced, you may have a dead battery before you know it.
Corroded Terminals and Cables
If you suspect that the battery is going bad, pop the hood and inspect it when your engine is cold. If you see corrosion on the battery terminals and the cable connectors, the battery is leaking sulfuric acid. You can clean away the corrosion with baking soda dissolved in distilled water, but this will not resolve the underlying problem. Have the battery replaced if it is leaking.
Misshapen Battery Case
You also need to have the battery replaced if the case is bubbling, cracking, or otherwise misshapen. This is a sign that the internal chemical reaction has gone bad.
Disgusting Battery Odors
Finally, if you notice disgusting odors around the battery, this, too, is a sign that the battery is leaking sulfuric acid. This acid smells like rotten eggs.
MotivWerks in Chambersburg, PA, would be happy to help, so call us today so we can set up an appointment for your automobile. We will test the battery and replace it if necessary.