6 SYMPTOMS OF A BAD BATTERY
purpose
The purpose of the car battery is to provide power to start the engine. It also provides power to electrical components when the engine is off, stabilizes the electrical supply, and serves as a backup power source in case of alternator failure.
Location
The battery in a car is typically located either under the hood or in the trunk. In some situations, it can also be underneath the rear seat. The specific location of the battery varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. If you’re having trouble finding it, you can get a repair manual here.
symptoms
engine cranking issues
The first symptom is engine cranking issues. If you try to start your car, but the crank seems slower than usual, it could be caused by a bad battery. When the battery starts to wear out or gets old, it won’t be able to provide enough current for the starter to turn the engine. This will result in a slower crank. This can especially be more noticeable during colder months.
decreased electrical power
The second symptom of a bad battery is decreased electrical power. A weak battery may result in dimming headlights, dim interior lights, or a weak power output from electrical components like power windows, or radio while the key is in the accessory position.
battery corrosion
Battery corrosion could occur due to electrolyte leakage or acidic vapors escaping from the battery. Inside the battery, there’s a mixture of water and sulfuric acid that forms an electrolyte solution. When this electrolyte comes in contact with the terminals or cables, it can cause corrosion. In some situations, you may also notice an odd smell. It’s important to note that it’s normal for the battery terminals and cables to corrode over time due to moisture in the air.
swollen battery case
The next symptom of a faulty battery is a swollen battery case. You’ll notice the battery is larger in size. This could happen due to prolonged overcharging of the battery. Overcharging can cause excessive heat to be generated within the battery. This heat can cause the battery to expand, resulting in it swelling up.
jump-starting the car
The fifth symptom is jump-starting the car frequently. If you’re finding yourself in this situation very often it could be an indication of a failing battery.
rapid clicking sounds
The last symptom of a bad battery is rapid clicking sounds. When attempting to start the car, if you hear rapid clicking sounds and see the dashboard lights flickering, but the engine fails to start, it could be a sign of a bad battery.
Now, something to consider is the age of your battery. The average lifespan of a battery is usually around 3-7 years. If you’ve had your battery longer than that, it’s probably time for a new one.
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