How to Tell Your Vehicle’s Battery Needs to Be Replaced?

By Product Expert | Posted in Service and Maintenance, Tips & Tricks on Thursday, May 9th, 2024 at 8:21 am
Testing the car battery to check its efficiency

Key Signs that Your Car Battery Needs Replacement 

As a driver, you rely on your car to get you from point A to point B reliably. But what happens when your car won’t start? Often, the culprit is a failing battery. Knowing the key signs that indicate your car battery needs replacement can save you from being stranded on the side of the road. Here are some indicators to watch out for. To learn more about this or to get your vehicle inspected, get in touch with us or drop by the Kimber Creek Ford dealership in Pine River, MN. 

Slow Engine Crank 

When you turn the key, if you notice the engine cranking slowly or taking longer than usual to start, it’s a clear sign that your battery is struggling to provide enough power. 

Dimming Headlights 

Have you noticed your headlights dimming when you start the car or while driving at low speeds? Dimming lights can indicate that your battery isn’t holding a charge effectively. 

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Check Engine Light 

While the check engine light can signal a variety of issues, it’s worth checking your battery if it illuminates alongside other symptoms like difficulty starting the car. 

Replacing the battery in a vehicle
The corroded battery case of a vehicle

Battery Age 

Most car batteries have a lifespan of around 3-5 years. If your battery is approaching or past this timeframe, it’s wise to proactively replace it, even if you haven’t noticed any symptoms yet. 

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Swollen Battery Case 

In extreme cases, a failing battery may exhibit physical signs of damage such as a swollen or bloated battery case. If you notice this, it’s crucial to replace the battery immediately to avoid the risk of leakage or explosion. 

Corrosion 

Check the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion. Corrosion can impede the flow of electricity and lead to starting problems. 

Get Instant Vehicle Repair Services in Pine River, MN 

Regularly monitoring these signs can help you catch battery issues early, preventing inconvenient breakdowns and ensuring your vehicle remains reliable. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to have your battery tested by a professional and replaced if necessary. At Kimber Creek Ford, our expert technicians can assess the health of your battery and recommend the best course of action to keep you safe on the road. Schedule a service appointment with us today!

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