Car batteries last, on average, for around three years when given the appropriate care and maintenance, but often motorists don’t know when to replace them. But there are vital signs that signal it’s time to check and possibly replace your car’s battery, unless you want to face an unexpected breakdown.
From understanding the warning light on your dashboard to recognising the consequences of ignoring the age of your battery, experts from BigWantsYourCar.com have shared the five signs to watch out for.
The first sign to look out for is if your check engine light is showing. This feature in your car is fairly self-explanatory, meaning if the light is showing, you should not ignore it and check your engine.
The check engine light showing could mean a range of things, such as the fuel cap is loose or the oxygen sensor has failed, but it can also mean your battery is failing.
An expert explained: “Always check your dashboard when you start your car. Most vehicles run a system check and may show a check engine light if there’s an issue. This could be a sign that your battery is failing. Different cars have different warning symbols, so it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with them and make dashboard checks a habit.”
The next sign is if you notice a slow engine crank, this refers to when the starter cranks, but the engine doesn’t start quickly. Again, this can be caused by a number of issues, but a weak battery in need of replacing is often the most common reason.
“A slow cranking engine is a classic sign that your battery needs replacing. If it takes longer than usual to start your car after turning the key, the battery might not be delivering enough power. This can happen in cold weather or if you’ve accidentally left the headlights on after locking up,” experts said.
If you notice your headlights are dimmed, it could be a sign that your battery is running low and should be replaced soon.
“When your engine is on, the headlights should be bright. If they’re not, it’s a warning sign that your battery might need attention,” experts shared.
A swollen battery is also a tell-tale sign that your battery needs to be replaced sooner rather than later. It is easy to spot a swollen battery as it will be visibly distorted and possibly leaking battery acid.
Swollen batteries are caused because the battery casing has expanded due to internal pressures such as high temperatures or overcharging.
“High temperatures often cause a swollen or bloated battery and can lead to serious damage,” experts explain. “If you notice bulges or swelling on the battery, it’s a sign that it’s been overcharged or overheated and needs to be replaced immediately to avoid further damage.”
Finally, you should be replacing your car battery every 3-5 years as this is how long they typically last. Failing to do so could lead to unexpected damage and potential shock breakdowns during your journey.
If you’re unsure how old your car battery is, experts say it’s easy to check, all you need to do is look “for the stamped date on it.”