Top Warning Signs Your Car Battery is Dying

Your Engine Cranks Slowly

When you start your engine, does it turn right on or does it crank for a while before finally getting going? If it takes a while, it means trouble for your car. Most likely, you’re looking at getting a new battery pretty soon. This is actually one of the most common signs you need a new battery since your engine draws power from the battery every time it starts. As your battery wears out, there’s less and less power for your engine to draw from, meaning it’ll take longer to start your engine.

You Turn the Key and Hear Clicking

Ever turn your key and nothing happens but a clicking sound? That means your battery is pretty much fully drained so your engine can’t draw power to start. If this happens, pay attention to other electric components like your dash lights and radio. If those come on, you may have a problem besides your car battery. If those don’t come on, it’s time for a new car battery.

There’s Corrosion on the Battery’s Connections

Lift up the hood of your car and see how your battery looks. If the terminals are corroded or wires are loose, try cleaning and tightening them. If your car still has trouble starting or you notice other electrical problems like described above, it’s a good idea to have your battery checked. It could be time to replace your car battery if there isn’t another underlying problem.

Your Battery Dashboard Light Comes On

Most modern cars have sensors for all key parts of the car. This includes your battery and other parts of the electrical system. If the car senses a problem with your battery, that light will come on to alert you to a necessary auto repair. Any dashboard light that comes on means it’s time to get it to a mechanic but ignoring the battery light can leave you stranded.

You’ve Had the Same Battery for a Few Years

Think back to the last time you got your battery replaced. Has it been a few years? Over time, your battery will gradually lose the ability to hold the same charge. This is totally normal with use but you will start to notice signs of lower battery power after a few years or so. Keeping up with regular car maintenance can prolong the life of your battery – as well as catch a dying battery before it causes you real trouble.

Your Battery Dashboard Light Comes On

Most modern cars have sensors for all key parts of the car. This includes your battery and other parts of the electrical system. If the car senses a problem with your battery, that light will come on to alert you to a necessary auto repair. Any dashboard light that comes on means it’s time to get it to a mechanic but ignoring the battery light can leave you stranded.

You’ve Had the Same Battery for a Few Years

Think back to the last time you got your battery replaced. Has it been a few years? Over time, your battery will gradually lose the ability to hold the same charge. This is totally normal with use but you will start to notice signs of lower battery power after a few years or so. Keeping up with regular car maintenance can prolong the life of your battery – as well as catch a dying battery before it causes you real trouble.