Do you know how to tell if your car battery is getting weak? Here are eight signs from Performance Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Delaware in Delaware, OH, that it might be time for a new car battery.
1. Your Car Is Difficult to Start
If your vehicle is difficult to start or won’t start at all, it could be a sign that you need a car battery. A car that’s difficult to start in the morning or when it’s cold typically indicates a dead or dying battery.
2. Your Battery Changes Color or Smells Bad
Old or damaged car batteries can leak fumes or liquid and need to be replaced. If your battery leaks colored fluid or smells bad, that’s usually a warning sign that it needs replacing. If your vehicle’s cabin smells like rotten eggs, a sulfurous odor, that’s also usually a sign that the battery is damaged or corroded.
3. The Terminals Are Dirty
If the battery terminals are dirty or corroded, it could be a sign you need a replacement battery. Crusty build-up on the battery terminals reduces the battery’s voltage and overall effectiveness.
4. There Is Corrosion on the Battery
When there’s a lot of corrosion on the battery casing, your battery is probably damaged. Aging batteries will often leak acid and crack the battery casing, causing the casing to break down. In addition, you may also notice swelling or bulging of the battery. If the battery is not replaced, acid residue will erode the battery, reducing its efficiency.
5. Your Car Is Slow to Start in Cold Weather
If your car takes a long time to start during the winter, it could be a sign you need to replace the battery. Slow starts are a warning sign you the battery is old or damaged.
6. You Have to Jumpstart Your Car
If you have to jumpstart your car often, it’s probably time to get a new battery. If it takes multiple tries before the engine starts – or if it never does start – your battery is probably dying. If you turn the key and hear a couple of clicks, this typically means your battery does not have enough power for the starter to work.
7. Your Headlights Are Dimmer Than Usual
If the headlights on your car are dimmer than usual, it could be a sign you need a new battery. If they flicker or stay on even after you’ve turned off the ignition, that’s also often a sign you need to find a replacement battery.
8. Your Car Battery Is Four Years Old
Batteries should usually be replaced every four years. If it’s older than that, you should consider replacing it as soon as possible.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, your car battery might need to be replaced. Schedule an appointment with Performance Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Delaware. We can test your battery and let you know whether a replacement is necessary – and if it is, we’ll install a new one for you quickly!
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