The battery of your vehicle is one of those things that you usually only have on your mind once you have a problem with it. A wide range of problems can be caused by a faulty battery, including a motorcycle or car that won’t start, which is not only frustrating but also inconvenient.
The positive aspect of the batteries is that they give out some warning signs before they are entirely lost, enabling you to replace them before you get stuck.
Here are some common signs that your car or motorcycle battery needs to be replaced:
Slow Engine Crank
When you turn the key or press the start button and your engine takes a few more rounds of firing up than normal, it could mean that your battery has become dilute. A healthy battery should start your engine within 3 seconds.
Dim Headlights
Have you ever experienced a situation where your headlight does not appear bright anymore, especially when you are waiting at the red light? Low beams may indicate that the battery is inadequate to produce the needed power.
Battery Warning Light
The vast majority of the new vehicles have a battery or charging system warning light located on the dashboard. If this light is lit up, it is an indication that your battery is not being charged properly or that the battery is failing to retain the charge.
Electrical Issues
If you can see your radio resetting again and again or your interior lights flickering on and off, you might need to replace your vehicle's battery. The battery powers all your car's electrical systems, so your entire car will be filled with electrical grumbles if the battery is weak.
Swollen or Misshaped Battery Case
Take a glance at your battery to see if it is bulging, warped, or cracked. This is undeniable evidence that the battery is worn out and, hence, needs to be replaced immediately.
Battery Age
In spite of the fact that your battery isn't showing any evident malfunction, you should think of replacing it every 3–5 years, depending on the condition of your vehicle and what is offered by the manufacturer. Because batteries have a limited lifespan, an old battery is more likely to stop working when needed.
Corrosion on Battery Terminals
If there is blue or white fuzzy around the battery terminals, that is caused by the battery acid leakage. Corrosion can prevent you from charging the battery properly, and the corrosion should be cleaned. Nonetheless, the corrosion that is too intense implies a new battery.
If you find any of these symptoms, it is a very good idea to have a professional test your battery. Lots of auto parts shops and car repair shops offer free battery testing services. If the test tells you that the battery is going down, you will better replace it before it gets stuck.
Replacing your battery is cheap and easy maintenance that will not cause you any trouble in the near future. Pay attention to the warning signs, invest in a new battery, and stay assured that your car or motorcycle will never leave you stranded in an emergency.