How to Tell When Your Car Battery Is Dying

Blog Feb 11th, 2022

Without a functioning battery, your vehicle wouldn’t have the source of power it needs to successfully start the engine. Unfortunately, like many vehicle components, car batteries will need to be replaced after enough time has passed. Wondering if your vehicle battery is in need of replacement? Below, we’ve put together all the information vehicle owners need to know about battery longevity, and how to tell when your battery needs to be replaced.

Signs of a Dying Vehicle Battery

Fortunately, it’s not likely that your car battery will reach the end of its life before showing a few signs of wear and degradation. Like many vehicle parts that start to break down, a failing car battery will often produce a few red flags that drivers will notice.

When your battery is dying, it’s likely that your vehicle will experience issues with its interior and exterior lights. Dim or nonfunctional headlights, taillights, dome lights or dashboard lights can all be the result of a battery problem. Other warning signs include an active check engine light, ignition clicking, a bulging battery case and a sulfuric odour coming from under the hood.

How Long Do Car Batteries Last?

There are many factors that determine how long a vehicle battery will last. Most service technicians will tell you that the average car battery will last about three to five years. Vehicle owners living in cold climate environments typically need to replace their batteries less often than those who live in areas with high temperatures, as excess heat can significantly shorten a battery’s lifespan.

Tips for Increasing Automotive Battery Longevity

To get the most out of a new car battery, there are several tips and strategies drivers should keep in mind. The most important factor is for vehicle owners to drive their vehicles regularly, as long stretches of inactivity will cause the battery to lose its charge. Other ways for drivers to increase their car battery’s life include:

Remove power-draining accessories when not in use
Check for loose cable connections every few months
Check for and remove battery terminal corrosion
Take your vehicle in for routine maintenance

Get Your Battery Checked or Replaced at S&B Keswick Motors

S&B Keswick Motors Limited can help vehicle owners in and around Keswick, Ontario with their car batteries. Whether you’re taking your vehicle in for a simple battery check or need to get it replaced, our team of factory-trained technicians will do everything they can to make sure your vehicle stays in great shape. Our facility is equipped to handle many different types of vehicle service, from battery replacement to brake repair and replacement.

Drivers interested in taking their vehicle in for service at S&B Keswick Motors Limited can find it at 475 The Queensway South. Drivers can schedule an appointment with our service centre by calling us at (844) 510 – 1513.