For some people, winter means dealing with a car that is harder to start in the morning. If you’re one of those people, don’t worry! You’re not alone.
Many drivers have to deal with this issue every winter. The good news is that there are a few things you can do to try to prevent your car from having trouble starting in the cold weather.
One of those things is keeping an eye on your battery. This blog post will explain how to tell if your battery is failing so you can stay vigilant and identify the signs earlier on.
Batteries Get Weaker in Cold Weather
One of the things that can happen as the temperature drops is that your car battery will start to fail. This happens because batteries work harder in cold weather and can lose power more easily. If you’re having trouble starting your car, or if it’s taking longer than usual to start, then your battery may be beginning to fail.
You can do a few things to test your battery and determine if it’s starting to fail. One thing you can do is check the voltage of your battery with a voltmeter. If the voltage is below 12.6 volts, then your battery might be getting weak.
Also, see the water level in your battery cells; if the water level is below the top, you’ll need to add more distilled water.
The Battery Case is Bulging
Another way to examine if your battery is starting to fail is by looking at it. Open the hood and check if the battery case is bulging. If it is, then that’s a sign that the battery is swelling due to gas buildup. It will need to be replaced.
The Battery Smells Very Bad
If your battery smells very bad, the sulfuric acid inside is likely starting to leak. This can cause major damage to your car, so you’ll want to replace the battery without delay. If you take longer to replace the battery, it might damage your car’s electrical system.
Your Car’s Headlights Are Dim
If your headlights are dim, it could be a sign that your battery is starting to fail. When the battery isn’t providing enough power, the car’s electrical system will take the strain, causing other components to wear down.
“Check Engine” Dashboard Light on
If the “Check Engine” dashboard light comes on, it’s likely that your battery is no longer providing enough power. This light doesn’t always come on because of the battery, but it’s a good indicator of the battery’s health.
If you’re having trouble with your car’s battery, it’s best to get it checked out by a professional. A failing battery can be dangerous and might cause accidents. So if you’re not sure what’s wrong, don’t hesitate to take your car in for a tune-up.
If you’re experiencing any of the signs that your car battery is failing, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. York Dodge, serving Prescott, AZ, offers a full range of automotive services, including battery testing and replacement. Our experienced car technicians will help you get back on the road safely and quickly, so schedule an appointment with our dealership service center today!
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