7 signs that your car battery needs to be replaced

Here are some signs that it's time to replace your car's battery.

1. Warning light is on

This is the clearest sign to know when it's time to replace the battery, the warning light on the dashboard will display a warning when the battery is having a problem.

2. Weak starter motor

If you turn the key to start the engine but it only moves slightly and cannot start, the main cause is a weak battery.

After the car has started, let it run for about 30 minutes to let the alternator charge the battery. Then turn it off and restart it. If it still doesn't start, the battery is damaged and you should replace it with a new one.

3. Difficulty starting in the morning

If you occasionally find your car difficult to start in the morning (about 3 times a week), it is also a sign that the battery is about to fail. However, you need to distinguish between a hard-to-start engine due to weak cranking, or a strong cranking engine that is still difficult to start... Because a strong cranking engine that is still difficult to start is due to an internal problem in the engine; while a weak cranking engine is due to the battery.

The battery is left overnight, the engine is not running so the generator will not charge the battery. On the other hand, when the engine is cold, the friction is also greater, so it needs enough amps to turn the starter. If this happens, it shows that the battery's ability to "hold" electricity is poor, so replace the battery soon to avoid problems when traveling far.

4. Engine does not turn over, no lights on the dashboard

If you turn the key to start the car but the engine does not move and other systems such as lights, horn, etc. do not work, the battery may be completely dead, the generator may be broken, or there may be an electrical system problem.

5. Engine sometimes starts and sometimes doesn't

This may be due to loose or sulfated battery terminals. Clean the terminals and tighten them. If tightening the terminals or adding another battery still doesn't start, the starter motor may be damaged.

6. Low battery fluid level

Car batteries are often transparent, so you can always monitor the fluid level. If the fluid level is below the specified level, have the battery and alternator system checked.

7. Battery is swollen and leaking

Due to the high temperature in the engine compartment, the battery case is swollen and bulging, reducing the battery life, so you should replace the battery immediately. This phenomenon occurs when the terminals (where the + and - cables are connected) are loose, corroded, and oxidized, the voltage in the battery can easily leak out through the oxidation layers above.

*How to keep car battery healthy and durable?

- Always ensure the electrical system is operating within specifications.Working in a place with higher voltage than normal will cause the battery to overcharge and easily become damaged.

-In summer weather, shouldRegularly check and add water.Before adding water, clean carefully to avoid any dirt getting inside and the water level should be at or above the standard level.

- Always keep battery covers clean.Too much dirt will become a conductor, reducing the performance of the battery.

-DefinitelyTighten the tank caps to prevent the electrolytic water from leaking out., leading to corrosion of the battery terminal trays.

- Always changeReplace the battery with the same type and specifications as the old battery;It is best to use the vehicle manufacturer's standard type.

Ngoc Anh