How to Tell If Your Car Battery Is About to Die: Warning Signs

 

Your battery is what powers up your vehicle and keeps it running. It’s what powers your lights, radio, and wipers. It’s the centre of your starting system and, once the car is started, it’s the battery that protects against a dangerous surge in power going to the vehicle’s built-in computer. This is why any Earlwood mechanic will agree that drivers need to look after their batteries better. You can start by learning the warning signs that might indicate that your battery is going to die.

Warning Light

The battery shaped warning light on your dash should not be illuminated at any time. If this warning light comes on, it’s a signal that something is wrong with the battery, alternator or another component of the charging system. It’s crucial to get this looked at as soon as possible as ignoring it could end up costing you a lot of money.

Clicking Sound But No Start

Do you hear a clicking sound when turning the key in the ignition? Is your car not starting? This is a sign that there isn’t enough power in the battery to engage the starter motor and start the engine. Again, find an Earlwood mechanic if this is happening to you as there’s a risk that you’ll ware down other parts of the starting system that may be otherwise working fine.

Electrical Issues

A weak battery will struggle to keep the car’s computer and electronic components working optimally. Dimmed lights, slow wipers, flickering engine lights and malfunctioning electric windows are all signs that there’s a problem the battery.

Old Age 

Old batteries can cause a number of different reliability and safety issues. 3 years is the average lifespan for a healthy car battery. Anything that’s over 3-4 years should be deemed dangerous and unfit for use.

Slow Starting Engine

A slow starting engine could be a signal that your battery is about to go. The start should be instantaneous and you shouldn’t have to turn the key twice for the engine to crank up.

And there you have it - 5 warning signs that your battery is in need of replacement. We hope you’ve learned something new about the mechanics of your car’s starting system and we hope that you can save yourself some stress and money by knowing the signs to look out for.

Going on a Long NSW Roadtrip? Here’s a Car Servicing Checklist

 Summer time is made for roadtrips and NSW does not disappoint when it comes to things to see and do. From the beauty of the Grand Pacific Drive and the Blue Mountains to the charm of Hunter Valley and the Southern Highlands, we’re spoiled for choice in this part of Australia. If you plan to spend time on the great open road this summer, there are some things you need to do when it comes to prepping your car for the journey. Interested to find out more? The following are some car servicing jobs you should have on your inspection checklist!

Fluids 

Let’s get the obvious out of the way; checking your fluid levels should be top priority. First up are the coolant and engine oil levels. They should be at the recommended levels so top them up if necessary. Next, take a look at the brake fluid, transmission fluid and windshield washer fluid. If you’re not sure of the correct levels, it’s a good idea to call a car service Bexley mechanic and book your car in for a visit before you leave. Trust us when we say that this is one area that you do not want to forget about when prepping your car for the open road as the areas are vast and you will not find engine oil at every stop!

Brakes

There are two areas to pay attention to when it comes to brakes; one is the pads and the second is brake performance in general. Check the pads and see if they’re worn. If yes, call to see your local car service Bexley mechanic and get the pads replaced. In terms of performance, make sure the brakes respond quickly and make sure there are no funny noises coming from the area when you’re tapping the pedal. When pressed, the pedal should feel firm and responsive instead of feeling soft and spongy.

Battery 

Is your battery older than 2 years? If so, it might be time to get it replaced. Talk to your local mechanic and book an inspection so they can check for signs of corrosion and general signs of wear and tear.

Lights

Check that all brake lights, turn signals, fog lights and all other lights are working properly. If you need to replace bulbs or you feel like the focus or light beam levels are off, your local mechanic will be able to help you.

Your safety and that of your passengers and all other road users is paramount this summer so we urge you to make the above inspections before planning a trip in NSW.