How to Tell If a Car Battery Is Bad
Your car’s battery plays an important role in its function, acting as the spark of life to help your vehicle get started. Keeping track of your battery’s health is a great way to keep your car starting, and running, its best, and our team at IRA Toyota of Hyannis wants to help you do just that.
To assist drivers in Hyannis, Barnstable, and Yarmouth, MA, our team has put together this guide to your car’s battery. We’ll explore its function and how to tell if a car battery is bad so you can have it replaced or repaired. Continue reading to learn more!
How Your Battery Works
As mentioned, your battery helps to get your car started, but it doesn’t work alone, it’s just one of many important parts of your vehicle’s starting system, which also includes:
- Ignition Switch – this is where you turn your key or press your vehicle’s start button
- Starter Relay – this receives a small current from your ignition to signal the battery to send voltage to the starter motor
- Starter Motor – receives voltage from the battery and ultimately gets the car started
Your battery doesn’t quit once the vehicle is up and running. It also works with your vehicle’s alternator to supply power to your vehicle’s electronics when it’s moving. In turn, the alternator generates a charge that travels back to the battery to recharge it as you drive.
How to Tell If a Car Battery Is Bad
Even though it recharges itself, as your car’s battery ages it may be unable to hold or output as much of a charge as it used to. For this reason, it’s recommended you have your battery replaced every 3-5 years, though factors like climate and driving habits can affect its lifespan.
For this reason, it’s important to know how to tell if a car battery is bad. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time for a replacement:
Slow Starting Engine
If you notice your car is slow to turn over, or isn’t turning on at all, it can be a sign that your battery is no longer able to produce a sufficient charge to get your vehicle started.
Corroded Connectors
If you notice a white, ashy substance on the metal parts of your battery, it’s most likely a corrosion issue. Corroded battery terminals can lead to voltage and starting issues.
Electrical Issues
If you notice your car’s lights or displays are appearing dimmer, it could be that your battery is failing and struggling to run them all at full power.
A Bad Smell
If your battery is damaged or experiences a short, it can possibly leak gas. If you notice a rotten egg smell when opening your hood, it could be a leaking battery.
Our Service Center
If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, our certified Toyota service center is ready to help. Our technicians can easily handle your battery replacements, as well as other routine service needs like oil changes and brake service. You can even easily schedule your appointment online!
Get Your Battery Checked by Us!
Now that you’re aware of how to tell if a car battery is bad, you’ll be able to continue taking the best possible care of your vehicle. If it’s time for a replacement, drivers in Hyannis, Barnstable, and Yarmouth, Massachusetts, can schedule service with our team at IRA Toyota Hyannis.