Do You Need a New Car Battery? Here Are Some Signs to Watch For

Many of us ignore the troubling signs that our car’s battery is on its last leg until the dreaded moment when our car won’t start. And we all know that moment is usually on the worst day at the absolute worst time. Fortunately, there are many signs that indicate when the life of your car battery in Lubbock, TX is nearing its end long before it inhibits your progress at the moment you’re on the way to an important meeting or job interview:

• Age of the battery: The simplest indicator of your battery health is the expected life of the battery. While it’s possible for a battery to last longer than the three or five years specified on the product, when it’s close to or past the stated lifespan, it’s a good idea to get it inspected. However, depending on the typical use of your car, it’s possible for the battery to last less than three years, too. Shorter trips shorten battery life expectancy because they don’t give the battery enough time to fully recharge. Additionally, extremely hot or extremely cold temperatures reduce battery life. It’s no coincidence that your battery always dies on the hottest day of summer!
• Check engine light: If your check engine light comes on and you don’t know the cause, it’s very possible that it’s your battery that’s causing the problem. If you know your battery is older than its expected lifespan, it’s time to get your battery checked and likely replaced. However, it’s important to check your automotive diagnostics in Lubbock, TX when your check engine light comes on, because there could be another cause. Technicians will be able to determine the underlying issues with the engine, battery or other components.
• Slow start: If it takes a few tries to get your engine started, it could also be due to the battery nearing the end of its life. A low battery often causes a sluggish engine crank, resulting in it taking a few tries more than normal to get going. Don’t wait until it doesn’t start at all to get your battery checked and replaced!
• Low battery fluid level: Another easy way to check the health of your battery is by looking at the fluid level. Most batteries have a translucent case, which reveals the fluid level. If the fluid level is below the energy conductor, it’s a good indicator that your battery and charging system need to be tested.
• Battery leak: To check for a battery leak, you’ll have to look under the hood of your vehicle. A leak will cause corrosion around the posts, where the cable connections are found. You can remove the leakage and corrosion to help get the car started, and then you may want to drive straight to an auto shop in Lubbock, TX to get your battery checked out before it quits on you altogether.
• Bloated battery case: Remember what we said about the heat of the summer taking a toll on battery life? That’s because these temperatures can cause an old battery to swell, resulting in a bloated battery case, which can be easily seen upon visual inspection. A bloated battery is definitely one in need of a diagnostic test to make sure it’ll get you through the sweltering days of summer without issue.

Check your car battery in Lubbock, TX

If you suspect that your car battery is nearing the end of its life, don’t wait until it fails you at a crucial moment. Reach out to M & M Tire & Service Center for automotive diagnostics in Lubbock, TX to check your battery, engine and everything else your car needs to keep running smoothly. We’ve been providing exceptional auto service since 1975 and can provide you with automotive tests and maintenance to make sure your car is in great condition for as long as possible. Find out more by giving us a call or stopping by for service!

Categorised in: Car Battery, Diagnostic Codes

This post was written by Writer