Your vehicle’s battery is the heart of the electrical system. If your battery is failing, your car won’t start and you end up stranded on the road. All car batteries become worn out after a few years and recognising the symptoms early and replacing them could save a lot of hassle in the future. Here is a list of the most common signs that will indicate that your car battery needs replacement.

1. Slow Engine Crank

Reduced engine cranking speed is one of the most common usual signs of a voltage loss in a battery meaning that your car battery cannot supply enough energy to start an engine. If your engine takes too long to start it is likely a warning sign of low battery life. If you find yourself often in this situation it might be time to get your battery tested by a trusted car mechanic in Bundaberg.

2. Check Engine Light

When the check engine light comes on, it can indicate various issues, It could easily be something as simple as a dead battery. Cars these days have more and more sensors onboard, and one of those sensors is designed to ensure that your battery is in good shape. If your battery is losing charge, the check engine light will likely come on for that specific issue. Although the light could be telling you about a few other things, the problem often indicates a dying battery.

3. Electrical Issues

All electrical equipment in your car is driven by a battery, and the when that battery is nearing its end, pretty much every other electrical system in your car won’t function properly. Your battery might simply be on its way out if you notice one or two of the following: your headlights seem slightly dimmer than usual; your windows are taking that little bit longer to wind up and down; your radio seems to be agitating with great inconsistency. If you find a few electrical components start acting up around you at the same time, it is a clear sign that your battery needs replacing. 

4. Battery Case Swelling

Extremely high temperatures can make your battery case swell. In Bundaberg’s hot climate, it’s not unusual for car batteries to experience thermal expansion. A swollen battery case is a serious problem that means the battery is too hot. This can also lead to a dangerous scenario where the battery can burst out. If you see that your battery case has swollen, ask for help immediately from a qualified auto electrician in Bundaberg.

5. Battery Age

Generally, car batteries last between three and five years. If you are in this age range of your battery, it would be good if you started paying closer attention to how it performs. Even if nothing seems wrong with it, having it tested once a year by a mechanic can save you from unexpected failures. This helps in making sure that your car remains functional all the time.

6. Battery Terminals Corrosion

Battery terminals corrosion is one of the most common problems that lead to poor electric conductance. The white powdery substance around terminals is often associated with this form of oxidation. Sometimes cleaning these areas restores their intended functioning but ongoing decay points out that the cell within them wears away at an alarming rate instead. Thus, if you keep on having to clean up your terminal ends then replacement should be considered as soon as possible.

7. Jump Starts That Occur Often

Frequent jump starts indicate the battery does not keep the charge. Occasionally jumpstarting can be caused by such things as leaving a light on or other user mistakes but regular jumpstarting indicates it is time for a replacement of a failing battery.

8. Unusual Smells

A failing battery can also give out a smell of rotten eggs, this is because it contains sulfuric acid that is leaking. This rather pungent smell is not just unpleasant but rather dangerous since it could be a sign that there is a leak. If you notice a stench coming from under the hood, it is recommended to take your car to the shop. Leaking acid can corrode other parts of the engine and it is also dangerous when it comes to handling.

9. Low Battery Fluid Level

Most cars use a battery that has a section of the casing that is see-through to enable you to look at the fluid level. If the fluid level is falling below the lead plates which are the energy conductors, then your battery is overcharging or overheating. Inadequate levels of battery fluids can cause the battery to fail premature. It is also important to check and ensure that battery fluids are always at the right levels to increase the life span of the battery.

Conclusion

Recognising any of these signs of a failing battery may very well save you from having a vehicle breakdown. If you experience any of these signs, then it is time that you should consult a reliable auto electrician in Bundaberg. They can test your battery and if needed provide a battery replacement. The overall health of car batteries as well as the replacement of your car battery regularly helps to keep your car reliable and safe on the road.

For top-notch auto electrical services in Bundaberg, reach out to local experts who have experience with battery and electrical needs. Reach out to our team of experts in auto electrical services in Bundaberg