It is very frustrating when we are ready to start a journey and find that the car battery is dead. Let us go through the causes of battery malfunction in the car and how to jump-start a dead car battery and get an idea of car battery replacement.
Causes of dead car battery
Error by the user: One of the most apparent reasons for a dead car battery is by an error by the user. When we inadvertently leave an overhead light on, left something charging in the accessory power source or use too much accessory power only after a short distance – could cause the malfunction of the car battery. When the power in the battery is used as soon as we start the car but the alternator which returns the power to the battery does not get enough time to fully charge the battery results in the breakdown of the battery.
Aging of battery: Most car batteries utilize lead-acid. Each cell in the multi-celled batteries is filled with a dilute solution of sulfuric acid and lead. Sulfation occurs when the battery ages. The negative plates in the car battery are coated in sulfate crystals, which build up over the period of time and reduce the ability of the battery to deliver power to the vehicle and result in starting issues in the car. The only solution to batteries which are 2-5 years old is by replacing it with a new one.
Defect in battery: There are also chances that the new battery is defected piece and hence is not working. Check with the mechanic to perform a battery test to determine if the battery has an internal defect.
Defected charging system: When the battery warning icon shows up when the car is moving, it may be a sign that there is a malfunction within the charging system. Mechanic may have to check to see if the alternator, serpentine belt, battery cable and terminals are functioning properly.
Corrosion of battery terminals: The corrosion builds up between the terminal posts and battery cables and causes the reduction in flow of power in the car. Use a wire brush and baking soda to remove the white, ashy deposits from the battery. But if the corrosion keeps occurring, the battery, battery cables or terminals need to be replaced.
Car battery replacement
When the car battery is consistently dying it is a clear sign that it is time to replace the battery. There are different ways to identify a failing battery. Car battery loses the capacity to hold an electrical charge as the battery ages which result in identifiable issues when starting the car. Check for the lazy engine sound or when it takes longer time to turn over when starting the vehicle or flickering overhead lights while starting the vehicles. If you hear or notice any such changes in the car, it is a good sign that the battery is weakening and maybe it is time for replacement of battery. It is best to get the car to the mechanic to have the battery levels tested to make the right decision.