Why Does a Car Battery Not Hold a Charge?

When a battery runs down, a simple recharge usually gets it going again. But repeat offenders may have internal problems or issues with the car's electrical system.

Trouble Signs

When a car battery has difficulty holding a charge and begins to fail, the car may display ignition problems, dim headlights during idle or a constant dashboard warning light, according to Interstate Batteries.

Defective Operation

If a battery seems unable to hold its charge, it may have a defective cell or an electrical short that makes normal operation impossible.

Home Chargers

A battery may appear not to take a charge from a home charger when the voltage in the battery falls below the minimum level that signals the charger to engage.

Batteries and Electrical Systems

Some cars require more electricity than the battery being used can handle, causing it to fail unusually quickly. A faulty car electrical system may also cause premature power drainage.

Batteries and Corrosion

Battery terminals may grow dirty or develop corrosion, interfering with proper performance and causing the battery to deliver more power than the situation actually requires.

References

• Interstate Betteries: Charging Batteries: Why Won't My Battery Take or Hold a Charge?