Car Battery Service in Birmingham, AL

What are the most common indicators that your vehicle's battery is dead or dying?

If you turn the key and the engine struggles to turn over, this is often a sign of a failing battery. It is likely that the battery is running low on its charge and does not have enough power to start the car.

When the battery reaches a critically low charge, the lights on the dashboard will become dim. This is an indication that the battery needs to be replaced.

Many vehicles now come with a built-in low battery indicator light. This light will turn on when the battery has reached a critically low level to alert the driver of the need to replace the battery.

If you detect a foul smell coming from your car's battery, then this is usually an indication of battery failure. The smell is caused by sulfuric acid, which is often released when a battery fails.

If the battery case is bloated or swollen, it may be an indication of a battery failure. The swelling occurs when the battery acid has started to leak and build up in the battery case.

Corrosion on the battery terminal is usually an indication that the battery has been failing for some time. The corrosion is caused by the sulfuric acid in the battery and can prevent the battery from being able to charge properly.

Did you know that you're supposed to clean your battery terminals every year? This should be part of your routine auto maintenance! Cleaning corrosion off battery posts can significantly extend the life of your vehicle's battery and charging system. Be sure to request battery maintenance during your next auto service appointment.

As batteries age, their charge decreases. If your battery is old and has not been replaced for a few years, it may be time for a replacement. Otherwise, you may wake up one morning to a vehicle that won't start. 

If you turn the key and the engine does not crank, then it is likely the car battery is dead. When this happens, the battery should be tested to determine if it needs to be replaced or if the electrical system is malfunctioning.

You may be able to jump the car battery and drive fine, but once the vehicle sits for a while, you'll need another jump start. This means your alternator is doing more of the heavy lifting and could go out soon!

If your headlights or interior lights are dim when you are driving, then this could be an indication of a weak car battery. Dim lights could be caused by a faulty electrical connection or a battery that is running low on its charge. 

If your vehicle has a low battery indicator light, then this could be an indication of a weakened or failing battery. When the battery reaches a critically low level, the light will turn on to alert the driver that the battery needs to be replaced.

Notice any of these telltale signs and warnings of vehicle battery failure? Then it's time to visit our Birmingham auto service center for maintenance and potentially a complete car battery replacement. Make an appointment online or visit Jim Burke CDJR at 1409 5^th Ave N in Birmingham, AL, for prompt service. Ask us about our automotive service financing options, too!