Despite all technological advancements in the automotive industry, one thing remains inevitable: cars and their parts will eventually fail. Despite their relative longevity, even well-made automotive batteries will need to be replaced.
While car batteries in the Philippines can last up from two to five years (or more), it’s important to know how to spot the signs that your battery needs to be replaced. Knowing what to look for can help you avoid getting caught off guard by a dying battery, allow you to take steps for preventative maintenance, and allow you to evade untoward or dangerous situations.
Here are some of the things you can do to check if your car battery is having problems:
Listen to the sound of your car during ignition.
Depending on how long you have been driving, you may already know the sound of a functional car. Hearing an odd sound when you turn your key to the ignition preempts suspicions that something is wrong with your car. One of the most common telltale signs of a failing car battery is sluggishness when cranking up the engine – longer attempts to start the car before success. Another indicator of a failing car battery is a clicking sound during startup attempts, suggesting there is insufficient battery power to start your engine – weak car batteries can’t supply sufficient electrical power to the starter solenoid, causing this clicking sound.
Visible Damage
As car batteries degrade, they charge and discharge quickly, causing moderate temperature fluctuations. After some time, temperature fluctuations like these can cause the battery to expand – visibly deforming the battery. Other visible signs of damage include cuts, slashes, or scrapes to your battery case indicating battery tampering. Also, leakage from the battery can be visible at the top or along the sides. Any of these are a warning sign of impending battery death.
Look for dim or flickering headlights.
The external lights in your car are important: they not only allow you to see at night, but they also allow your vehicle to be seen by others. So when your lights fail to work as expected, they are a safety hazard. All electrical components of a car ultimately rely on the car battery — that includes your headlights. Naturally, when you see your headlights underperforming or flickering (when parked, revving the engine, or driving) that’s a strong sign of a failing battery.
There are more telltale signs in knowing whether your car battery is nearing its breaking point. However, the three items mentioned above are good enough indicators that you may need to schedule a visit with a mechanic or call for a replacement.
Luckily, whichever way is convenient for you, Motolite can serve you, no matter your preference and situation. Whether you are stuck on the road with a broken down car, or at home waiting for your car to be tended, in just a few taps, a highly-skilled mechanic will get your car battery taken care of. So, if you do not have it yet, make sure to download the Motolite RES-Q app on your mobile phone or tablet to see the difference and know why many would still go for a trusted brand na pangmatagalan. Nothing beats Motolite.
