5 Signs That You Need a New Car Battery

If you’ve been driving for a while, there’s a good chance you know the sinking feeling of discovering that your vehicle’s battery is dead. It always happens when you’re on a time constraint trying to go somewhere important. When your car doesn’t start, it’s safe to assume the battery is the culprit. However, it’s often difficult to know what caused it to fail at that specific time. Many car owners would gladly avoid unnecessary headaches and aggravation if they only had a warning that their 2002 Kia Rio battery was on its last leg. There is good news; there are a few ways to recognize a failing car battery, maybe even before it leaves you stranded.

Electrical Malfunctions

If the battery dies, you can’t operate anything in the vehicle. This includes the electrical system, such as the lights, radio, sunroof, and even electric mirrors.

Difficulty Starting Engine

One of the most characteristic indications of a failing or dead car battery is when you turn the key to your ignition, and the engine won’t start. It may sound like it’s “trying” to start, but it won’t turn over. The engine will not make any sound if the battery is dead.

Engine Light Comes On

The check engine light can signify several different issues. Most of the time, though, it’s a sign of a battery problem, so it’s helpful to check your battery first, as it could require a very simple fix. If this is the case, there’s a probability that your battery is not even failing. You could discover loose or corroded connections or some type of damage. Therefore, you should visually inspect your Infiniti G25 battery.

Swollen or Bulging Battery Case

When you visually examine the battery, you may notice its case looks bulging or swollen. In this case, replacing the battery as soon as possible is essential. Otherwise, it’s likely to leave you stranded at any moment.

Leaking Battery

You may discover upon your check that your battery is corroding around the positive and negative cable posts. This corrosion means the battery is leaking, which also is a sign of failure. You are likely also to notice a bad smell similar to rotten eggs. This smell is coming from the leaking battery fluid.

In addition to the above tips, be sure to take into account the age of your battery. Car batteries typically last around three years. However, it’s common for them to last longer depending on specifics like how often you drive the car and the maintenance you give to the battery. Hopefully, these details will help you avoid the aggravation of being left stranded due to a dead battery. Watch for these signs and if you see one, take action as soon as possible by getting what you need. A reputable automotive parts and accessories dealer can help whether you need a 2003 Toyota Rav4 battery or a battery for an older or newer vehicle. This way, you can have the peace of mind that your car will be available whenever you need it.