My car didn’t start yesterday – completely out of the blue. I was so shocked that it took me a few minutes to process what the possible problem might be. Then it hit me – we’ve had several days of extremely hot (triple-digit) temperatures this week. Those few hot days may have put the final nails in my car battery’s coffin, so to speak. With my situation in mind, I’ve put together a helpful list of warning signs to help you identify potential car battery issues with your car. Hopefully, you will notice the dim headlights or excessive corrosion on your car battery before your car won’t start.
Car Batteries Have A Limited Lifespan
Car batteries have a finite lifespan, and even under ideal conditions, they age over time. Several factors influence a car battery’s lifespan. While battery quality plays a role, how you use your vehicle, as well as environmental factors, also impact its longevity. High temperatures, especially in warm climates, promote chemical reactions that generate electricity and accelerate battery degradation. Car batteries often last five to six years in cooler climates. Alternatively, they only last about 3 years in warmer southern areas.
9 Car Battery Warning Signs
Determining when your car battery needs to be replaced isn’t always as easy as we might wish. Experts suggest replacing car batteries every three to five years. However, many of us need to squeeze every possible dime out of our current battery before buying a new one. Since time, heat, and vibration impact your battery’s lifespan, it’s beneficial to be aware of the warning signs to watch out for.
1) Bulging Battery Case
A swollen, cracked, or bulging battery case may signal that your car battery is overcharging or overheating. Damage to the outer case of your vehicle’s battery is unsafe and requires replacement as soon as possible.
2) Car Won’t Start
When your vehicle’s engine cranks slowly or your car won’t start at all, your car battery may be losing power or not charging effectively.
3) Clicking Noise
A clicking noise when engaging the ignition button or turning the key can indicate a bad connection between the battery terminals and cables.
4) Corrosion On Battery Terminals
Corrosion can appear as a blue-green powder or a white, chalky substance on the metal posts of your car battery. You can remove minor build-up with a little water, baking soda, and a soft brush. Excessive corrosion may mean your battery is leaking and requires immediate replacement.
5) Dashboard Warning Lights
An illuminated ‘battery’ or ‘charging’ icon warning light in the dashboard often indicates a dying battery or charging issue.
6) Dim Headlights
Vehicle headlights that look dim or flicker in brightness, especially while the engine is idling, can indicate a weakened or failing battery.
7) Electrical Problems
Problems with electrical components, especially audio-visual and entertainment accessories, can suggest your car battery is not maintaining a sufficient charge.
8) Need A Jump-start
If your car won’t start and you frequently need a jump-start to get your engine to turn over, your car battery needs an inspection to ascertain the problem. This problem usually points to an old or damaged battery that can no longer hold a charge.
9) Rotten Egg Smell
A rotten egg smell from the battery can indicate damage to the case and leaking fluid. Leaking battery acid can damage both the battery and the surrounding area. Additionally, it can be hazardous to your health.
Car Battery Maintenance in San Diego, CA
At Wentworth Automotive in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, CA, we specialize in auto repairs. Whether your vehicle requires car battery maintenance, testing, and recharging, or a more comprehensive inspection of the ignition system, our service team has you covered. Follow these tips to help extend the lifespan of your car battery:
- Drive your car regularly (more than 10 minutes at a time)
- Turn off all electronic components when they are not in use
- Try to avoid parking in direct sunlight during the summer and outside in freezing weather
- Use a trickle charger if you must park your vehicle for an extended period
- Follow your factory-suggested maintenance schedule
Schedule A Car Battery Service
Remember, most car batteries have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years in warm climates. If your car won’t start, you have dim headlights, or there is significant corrosion on the terminals, it’s time to replace your car battery. Call us at (858) 541-1044 or visit our website to make a reservation.