Nothing is more frustrating than heading out in the morning with plans for the day in mind, only to find your car won’t start. The battery is dead. 

If only there were a way to know it was dying …

There is. Checking your car battery’s health isn’t difficult. In fact, it’s something you should do regularly. 

If you are a car owner, knowing how to check your car battery’s health is important. A weak or dead battery can leave you stranded and may cause damage to your vehicle’s electrical system. Checking your battery’s health is easy and can be done at home. Regularly checking the health of your car battery is crucial to ensure optimal performance and avoid unexpected breakdowns.  

What do you need to know? 

How a car battery works

Before we dive into the various methods of testing a car battery, it’s important to understand how it works. A typical car battery is a plastic case containing a series of lead plates submerged in an electrolyte solution. When you start your car, a chemical reaction occurs between the plates and the electrolyte, producing electrical energy. This energy is then used to power the vehicle’s starter motor and other electrical systems.

How to test a battery at home

A car battery doesn’t fail overnight. Instead, it’s a process. It weakens. It provides little clues it’s having problems. This is where your opportunity lies for picking up the clues and realizing your battery is having problems. 

The headlight test

A headlight test is one of the simplest ways to check your car battery’s health. Start by turning on your headlights while the engine is off. Observe the brightness of the headlights. It may indicate a weak battery if they appear dim or noticeably softer than usual. Leave them on for a few minutes. Are they still bright in intensity? If they show any signs of weakening, you might have a problem with your battery. However, if the lights are bright and maintain a steady intensity, the battery is likely in good condition.

Check for corrosion

Corrosion on the battery terminals can hinder the flow of electricity and impact the battery’s performance. Inspect the battery terminals for any signs of white or greenish deposits. If you notice corrosion, cleaning the terminals using a mixture of baking soda and water or a commercial battery terminal cleaner is crucial. Ensure that the terminals are securely connected after cleaning.

How old is the battery?

Batteries have a limited lifespan and will eventually need to be replaced. Knowing the age of your car battery is essential in determining its health. Most batteries have a date code imprinted on the casing, indicating the month and year of manufacture. If your battery is over three to five years old, it’s advisable to keep a closer eye on its performance, as it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. If you consistently have problems, err on the side of safety and replace it before it leaves you stranded. 

Use a battery tester

Investing in a battery tester can provide more accurate and comprehensive results regarding your battery’s health. Battery testers come in various types, including simple handheld devices and more advanced models with digital displays. These testers measure the battery’s voltage and can also assess its cold cranking amps (CCA), indicating its ability to start the engine in cold conditions. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the tester properly and interpret the results accurately.

What causes a car battery to fail?

Car batteries can fail for a variety of reasons. Sometimes it may seem as if there is no rhyme or reason to it – one day it works, the next, it fails. Yet parts rarely fail without telltale signs. Understanding the common causes of battery failure can help you prevent potential issues in the future. They can include: 

Age – As mentioned earlier, car batteries have a limited lifespan, typically three to five years. Over time, the internal components degrade, leading to reduced performance and eventual failure. Your car battery comes stamped with a manufacture date. Or keep a log book in your glove compartment and track each repair you make. It provides an easy way to check when you’ve upgraded or maintained your vehicle. 

Extreme temperatures – Both extreme heat and cold can impact a battery’s performance. High temperatures can cause fluid evaporation and accelerate the battery’s chemical reactions, while frigid temperatures can reduce the battery’s ability to generate power.

Lack of maintenance – Neglecting regular maintenance, such as cleaning the terminals and ensuring proper connections, can contribute to battery failure. Corrosion buildup and loose connections can impede the flow of electricity.

Overuse or underuse – Batteries that are consistently discharged and recharged excessively or left unused for extended periods can experience reduced capacity and may fail prematurely. If you push your car to the limits, this may decrease the battery’s life. 

How to select the right battery for your car

Batteries are not “one size fits all.” Instead, they come in all shapes and sizes, created especially to power different makes and models. 

When it comes time to select a new battery for your car, choosing the right one is essential to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:

Check your car’s specifications – Consult your car’s owner manual or check the existing battery to determine the recommended battery type, size, and specifications. Of course, you can always stop by and have us take a look. We can quote you a price and provide information to help you purchase a battery specifically with your driving style in mind. 

Consider the climate – Let’s face it, Colorado has extreme temperatures. Extreme heat or cold can affect a battery’s performance, so selecting a battery with a higher cold cranking amp (CCA) rating for cold climates or a higher reserve capacity (RC) for hot climates can provide better reliability. No more worrying the next time we have record-breaking cold or heat waves. 

Quality and brand reputation – Choose a battery from a reputable brand known for producing reliable and durable products. Quality batteries often come with longer warranties, indicating the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

Seek professional advice if needed – If you need help deciding which battery to choose or have specific requirements, feel free to seek advice from a trusted mechanic or battery specialist. They can help you select the right battery for your car based on your driving habits and specific needs.

Visit Express Car Care 

Checking your car battery’s health is a simple process that can be done at home.  Regular checks are crucial to avoid unexpected breakdowns and ensure optimal performance. 

These tips allow you to maintain a healthy car battery and enjoy a reliable and trouble-free driving experience. 

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