Your battery acts as the lifeblood of your car. Responsible for starting your engine, a car battery also powers all the electrical components of your vehicle. Without a fully functioning car battery, you’ll be left sitting on the side of the road.
We’ve listed some key warning signs that are good indications your battery’s life is coming to an end:
Signs your car battery is dying
- A slow starting engine: As the components of your car battery begin to wear out, your battery will slowly begin to deteriorate. The first sign your car battery is on the way out will be the appearance of your ‘check engine light’.
- Dim lights and electrical issues: As your car battery begins to lose its charge, you may notice the lights on your dashboard and radio will begin to dim. The more items plugged into your car, the faster your battery will drain, resulting in a car battery replacement.
- You may notice a strange smell: Damage to the battery or an internal short can cause the car battery to leak gas. If you smell rotten eggs when you open the hood, a leaking battery may be the culprit. Take it in to get checked out. Book in to see a mechanic straight away.
- Dim headlights: If you notice that your headlights seem dim and weaker than usual, take note! Not only is the reduced light a safety issue, but it also means your car battery is almost dead and a car battery replacement may be needed.
- Clicking sounds when you start your car: When you turn your key in the ignition, your car battery sends a current to an electrical component. A failing battery will have difficulty performing this function and the electrical current sent to the starter will be weaker. When the starter receives reduced or insufficient power from the battery, it often makes the clicking noise you’re hearing. And you need to book in to see a mechanic.
- Pressing on the accelerator to start your car: You shouldn’t need to give your car gas to get it started. If you find that your car is sluggish and only starts when you press your foot on the accelerator, you may be dealing with a failing car battery.
- Backfiring: This is one warning sign you can’t miss! A failing car battery can cause intermittent sparks that can lead to fuel accumulating in the cylinders. When this built-up fuel is ignited, it may cause your car to backfire. Mind you, backfiring can be a symptom of several different problems, so a car battery replacement may be the least of your worries!
How long does an average car battery last?
Drivers should consider battery replacement as just another part of routine maintenance. Some cars will get up to five or six years out of their battery, while others will need a new one after only a couple of years. Though the exact lifespan of a battery is dependent on the vehicle and its condition, it’s safe to say most vehicles need a new battery every three to four years on average.
Ready to book in for a car battery replacement with a mechanic?
Auto Service Newcastle offers a wide range of mechanical services, including battery replacement. Located in Wickham, New South Wales, phone the team on (02) 4969 3166 to make a booking. Why not request an obligation-free quote online today? Check out our additional services while you are there!