Battery problems are difficult to escape from. Like the batteries in our TV remote and cell phone, vehicle batteries don’t last forever. They weaken over time from wear and tear and exposure to extreme temperatures. How do you know when to replace it? Here are several key ways to tell:
Sign #1: Battery Is Old
When batteries are 3+ years old, they tend to have issues. Most vehicle batteries in cars, trucks, and SUVs don’t last longer than 5 years. If you aren’t sure how old your battery is, you can find it by looking up its special code online.
Sign #2: Slow Starts
A battery doesn’t just die out of the blue unless it is experiencing a different problem. If your vehicle struggles to start your engine, you should take that as a sign to have your battery tested. Eventually, it will get worse. We recommend having it changed out soon.
Sign #3: Clicking Sounds on Start-Up
If you hear a clicking noise when you turn the key in the ignition, it indicates a slow start. Therefore, you should have your battery investigated soon.
Sign #4: Dim Lights
A weak battery may start showing warning signs before it even affects start ups. Your headlights may start to flicker or dim along with other malfunctioning components that require electricity.
Sign #5: Electrical Warning Light On
If you notice a dashboard warning light that resembles a car battery, it means that there is something wrong with your battery. However, you can’t be too sure that it needs a replacement until you have a professional technician check it out and test it.
If you want to have your car battery tested or need a battery replacement, we welcome you to bring your vehicle to the expert team at Oakmont Auto Care today. Feel free to give us a call or schedule an appointment online at your convenience.