What are the Common Symptoms of a Failing Vehicle Battery?

Imagine this if you're running late to a critical event then you leap into the car and you insert the key into the ignition. Or you receive a sorry and lethargic whine from your engine before it makes its final wheeze. These are annoying and are all too common experiences. But these things can be avoided altogether if you know what the warning signs are. The battery is like your car's heart it gives the neurological shock of electricity it needs to get everything going.

While the battery won't usually just quit working without warning but it will give you a signal that it's failing by offering subtle and not so subtle provocation. Recognizing the signs of a dying battery charge is the beginning of preventative maintenance and fixing the awful dead battery debacle.

Electrical Strangeness and Flickering

The battery does a whole lot more than simply power the engine and it's what supplies power to all of the vehicle's electrical amenities. When the battery is starting to go bad then it just can't deliver a constant and reliable voltage to the electrical accessories in the vehicle. If you found that your headlights are slightly weaker than normal particularly when the engine is running and your dashboard lights are blinking then your power windows are operating at a snail's pace or the radio is suddenly losing power then all of these indicate that your battery is weak and struggling to meet electrical loads. A bad alternator would have the same effect. So always try to have a pro take a look at the problem.

The Check Engine Light's Secret Message

Sometimes a dying battery is completely deceitful and will trigger a dashboard warning that has absolutely nothing to do with it and that really needs attention. The "check engine" light might illuminate for no other reason than your onboard computer sensed that the system voltage was below the perfect voltage level. You can think of this as a low power alert for the electrical system in your car. It sounds strange because the dead battery is only one of many things that can cause the check engine light but it is a frequent culprit.

Physical Indications: Swelling and Odours

Take a minute, pop the hood and take a look at the battery. If the case is swollen or bloated particularly on the side that is a red flag. Swelling and bloating usually happen when the battery overheats due to being overcharged or simply left in extreme heat and then the internal components expand. This isn't something to be dismissed but this is a definite safety risk and you should replace the battery right away. Another indicator of serious trouble is a sulfurous or acrid odour that lasts and is similar to rotten eggs. That odour is hydrogen sulfide gas which is a product of leaking battery electrolyte. Hydrogen sulfide is a toxic, hazardous gas and you must purchase a new battery if you smell it.

The Effect of Temperature Extremes

Weather can be a foe to batteries. The insufficient charge is a worrying thing in both hot and cold. In warm weather the heat accelerates the chemical reactions in the battery which can lead to increased failure of the battery. The battery might appear to be good in hot summer conditions but it then malfunctions at the first cold sign in fall. This is because the battery cannot supply the required power to activate the vehicle as a result of the reduction of chemical reactions brought about by the cold. When the battery cannot function because of extended summer heat then this guarantees that it will manifest during the winter months.

When to Seek Professional Assistance

Although some DIY maintenance can be helpful but there are occasions when it’s a good idea to get help from a professional. If you’ve jump started your car more than once then consider that the battery is no longer capable of holding a charge on its own. Damages visible to the battery case such as swelling or leakage then warrant an immediate visit to a professional. Having your battery inspected by an auto parts store or a mechanic annually is a good practice if the battery is older than three years. This provides a sense of security and gives you an opportunity to budget for a replacement before getting stranded.

Conclusion

The battery in your vehicle gives you the power to move. So, don't take it for granted. Listen to the little signals your vehicle is sending you and you can avoid breakdown stress and keep your vehicle reliable. A bit of attention and maintenance can save you time, money and grief from your vehicle being dead. So, listen to your vehicle, exercise judgment and seek assistance when you notice anything amiss. For such complex issues you can contact us. We are equipped with advanced technology and have qualified technicians who will not only diagnose your issues but also ensure you enjoy a longer battery life in your vehicle.

Mark Douglas Motorworks is a family owned and operated auto repair shop, giving service to all European and exotic cars like Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Mercedes, Maserati, Ferrari, Jaguar, Land rover, Porsche and Rolls Royce.