Do you depend on your car for just about everything? If so, you’re definitely not alone.
After all, most people in the modern world need a reliable form of transportation to make their daily lives possible. That’s why it’s such a bummer to discover that your battery is dead.
Your car battery life is limited, thus you need to understand the signs that your battery is on the way out before it’s too late. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place for help.
This article takes a look at how to check car battery life. Keep reading for the inside scoop on signs that could prevent a disaster.
1. Dim Dash Lights
One of the first signs of a weak battery that you’ll likely notice is dash lights starting to dim. This could also be true of headlights. Once a battery begins to fail, you will notice that your various gauges simply aren’t so bright and clear anymore. This is a great time to take the battery to your local automotive parts store to be tested.
2. Trouble Starting Vehicle
There’s really nothing worse than attempting to start your car on a cold morning only to discover the battery is dead. It might attempt to turn over but will only click.
This doesn’t necessarily mean that the battery is the core problem, but it does mean that your battery is currently dead.
When this happens, jump start your car and then have your battery tested as soon as possible.
3. Corrosion On Battery Posts
The posts on your battery should always be clean. If you discover signs of corrosion, you’d be wise to replace your battery before serious damage can occur.
4. Battery Is Old
The simple truth is that car batteries aren’t designed to last forever. The average car battery life is 2 to 5 years. Once you’ve owned a battery for more than five years, it’s time to think about investing in a replacement.
Check out this guide to buying a car battery.
5. Your Vehicle Hasn’t Been Started In Months
Believe it or not, one of the things that can kill a battery faster than just about anything else is lack of use. In other words, when you don’t start your car for weeks or months at a time, it will lose its charge and eventually be unusable.
The key to keeping your battery from dying prematurely is to get in the habit of starting it and letting it run for a few minutes at least once a week.
It’s important to keep in mind that every time you drive, the alternator on your engine recharges your battery. But when the car is rarely driven, the battery simply won’t get recharged.
6. Check Engine Light Is On
The warning lights on your instrument panel are there for a reason. They warn you of potential problems. This includes battery life. When you notice the check engine light coming on, take your battery in to be tested.
A Guide to Understanding When Car Battery Life has Come to an End
Car trouble is never fun. Fortunately, this guide to car battery life will help keep your car running properly year and year.
Keep scrolling to discover more useful automotive-related tips and advice on this blog.