Signs of a Bad Car Battery

A car battery provides the power needed to start your vehicle. It is a vital mechanical component that is often overlooked. Batteries can fail without warning. There are steps that can be used to evaluate problems and restart the battery. For batteries to provide optimum performance, regular maintenance is necessary.

Car Battery Function

A battery provides the power needed to start your vehicle. It generates an output of 12 volts DC. The battery also supplies power to your entertainment system, climate control, interior and exterior lights, and the vehicle's electronics when your car engine is turned off.

Signs of a Bad Battery

Your dashboard battery light is on. A ticking or clicking sound is heard when you start the car with weak or no response. The vehicle won't start at all. A battery's average life is three to five years under normal driving conditions and may have exceeded its longevity.

Testing

Make sure your battery terminals are tight and clear of corrosion. Use a testing device to ensure you are getting 10 to 12 volts of power. If your battery is new check your alternator, which can mimic the same problems.

Charging

To attempt to get the battery to charge, give it a boost either through the use of jumper cables between two vehicles or a solo jumper box.

Preventative Maintenance

Clean the battery terminals' clamps and posts with a spray protector and brush every six months. Check for loose connections.

Battery Toolbox

A well-stocked bettery toolbox includes: Jumper cables, jumper box, battery cleaner spray and brush, safety glasses and a battery tester.

Resources

• Interstate Batteries
• AC Delco Batteries