The battery is the essence of a car as it plays an integral role in starting the engine. Also, it powers all of the electrical components in your car. It can be a huge mess if the battery isn’t fully functioning.
A battery gives you a few key warnings when it is about to die. First, it slows down and then it dies eventually. However, if you pay attention to these signals, you’ll know it beforehand. Kindly check if your car is giving any of these signs.
1. Engine starting slowly
With use, the battery wears out becomes less effective. This can be noticed when the battery takes longer to create a charge for the starter and you end up waiting a few seconds extra for the engine to kick in. A slow start is usually the last signal that a battery gives before dying completely.
2. Dim lights and electrical issues
The battery is responsible for powering all of the electronics in your vehicle. It includes the lights, radio or your dashboard computer. In the case when the battery is losing its charge, these gadgets will not run at full power. You’ll notice that the lights are dimmed or the radio doesn’t work properly or it is taking too long to charge your phone. Please note that in situations like these the more things you plug into your car while driving, the faster your battery will die.
3. Check Engine Light is on
Most of the vehicles are equipped with the check engine light. And it lightens up when anything is wrong with the battery. If it shows, you must get your battery tested by a mechanic or get it replaced if it isn’t working properly.
4. Weird smell
Any damage to the battery usually causes the battery to leak gas. The leaked smell has a very weird smell. In case you feel so, your leaking battery may be the culprit. You must get it checked as quickly as possible.
5. Misshapen battery case
In case you open up your engine and see that the battery is shaped anything but rectangular, chances are it isn’t working properly. Such situations can be dangerous. You must get it checked.
These signals mustn’t be ignored, not even out of carelessness. The battery might drain or die in between your drive which can be risky. Always get your battery checked twice within a year. It’s better to safe than sorry!