Auto Service Kingston can test your car battery to see if it needs to be replaced. If the battery is three years old or older, it has likely reached the end of its life. If you have to jump-start the battery on a regular basis to get it working, it’s time to replace it. This is just one sign that the battery has lived its life. Here are other signs that your battery is going bad.
Illuminated Battery Light
The battery light will turn on if the battery is struggling to produce power. Normally, you will see the light on for a few seconds when you first start your automobile. The light will turn off and remain off. If it stays on or turns on while you are driving, there’s a problem with the battery or alternator.
Malfunctioning Accessories
A weak battery is also going to have problems providing power to your automobile’s electrical accessories. This includes things such as the lights, the USB charging ports, the power seats and windows, the entertainment system, and your navigation system.
Ignition Problems
You may also find it difficult to get your automobile started if the battery can no longer hold a charge. When you turn the ignition key or press the start button, the automobile may crank several times before the engine actually fires up. Head to our shop if you get your vehicle started.
Corroded Terminals
An older battery may start to leak battery acid. When this happens, the acid corrodes the battery terminals. The acid can also corrode the cable connectors. If you pop the hood and see that your battery is corroded, it’s time to replace it because it is leaking battery acid.
Rancid Egg Odors
In addition to the corrosion, you may also smell rancid eggs. This is a sign that the battery is leaking acid because the acid inside the battery is sulfuric acid. You may already know this, but sulfur smells like rotten eggs. It’s definitely time to get a new battery if your old battery is leaking.
Misshapen Case
Finally, the battery should be replaced if there is a problem with the battery case. For example, if the chemical reaction has gone bad inside of the battery, the case will bubble or warp. The battery case can also crack. Get a new battery if this is the case with your battery case.
Auto Service Kingston in Kingston, ON, is here to help, so call us or swing by our shop today.