You need the battery to be able to start your car. That is it’s primary purpose along with providing power to the electronic components throughout the vehicle (stereo, lights, power windows/doors, electric power steering, etc.). If the battery dies or is growing weaker, you will likely notice some telltale signs.
The average 12-volt car battery will last 5 to 7 years before it needs to be replaced. Depending on your automotive care and other factors, it may last longer or it may die sooner. If you leave the car sitting unused for long periods of time or drive a lot in cold weather, it will drain the battery. Sometimes, you may just need a jump start to get it going and then the alternator will keep it recharging as you drive. However, all batteries ultimately begin to start loosing their charging capacity and eventually it will need to be replaced.
Here are a few signs of a dying car battery, curated by www.kiwicasinos.io.
- A slow starting engine
Over time, the components inside your battery will wear out and become less effective. When this happens it takes the battery longer to create a charge for the starter and you’ll have to wait a few extra seconds for the engine to turn over. A slow start is usually the last gasp before a battery kicks the bucket.
- Dim lights and electrical issues
The battery powers all of the electronics in your vehicle, from your lights to your radio to your dashboard computer. If the battery is losing its charge it will have a harder time running these things at full power. The more things you plug into your car while driving — like your phone charger — the faster your battery will die.
- The check engine light is on
In most vehicles, the check engine light can mean just about anything and it may come on when your battery is running out of juice. Check your manual and get your battery tested by a mechanic to see if it’s working at full capacity. If not, you should get it replaced.
- Bad smell
Damage to the battery or an internal short can cause the battery to leak gas. If you smell rotten eggs when you open the hood, a leaking battery may be the culprit. Take it in to get checked out. The mechanic will let you know if the battery needs replacing and what the next steps will be.
- Corroded connectors
Notice a white, ashy substance on the metal parts of your battery? You’ve got a corrosion issue. Corroded terminals — the positive and negative metal connections on the top of the battery — can lead to voltage issues and trouble starting your vehicle.
- A misshapen battery case
The wild climate of the prairies can do a number on the lifespan of your battery. Exposure to extreme heat and cold can actually cause a battery case to swell and crack. If your battery is anything but rectangular, chances are it isn’t working properly. You should change it quickly to a new one so you can play games at casinos online us for an extended period of time.
- Old battery
It goes without saying but after a while it’s easy to forget when you last had your car battery checked. When was the last time your battery was replaced? In ideal conditions, car batteries typically last 3-5 years. Climate, electronic demands and driving habits all play a role in the lifespan of your battery. It’s a good idea to air on the side of caution and get your battery performance tested regularly once it gets close to the 3-year mark.
