If you look at your import’s battery, it will have two numbers on it. The first number represents the month the battery was made, and the second number represents the year. For example, if the numbers are 12/18, your battery was manufactured in December 2018. If the battery is still working, you are getting a bit of extra life out of it because car batteries generally last about three years. Uptown Imports is going to list the signs that your battery is dying below. The battery’s age is just the first consideration.
Illuminated Battery Light
Your dashboard may give you a warning that the battery is going bad. If the battery light turns on while you are driving or does not turn off after you start your import, it is telling you that there is a problem with the battery or another problem with the electrical system.
Malfunctioning Accessories
Your import’s power accessories will also clue you into a problem with the battery. For example, moving accessories such as the windows and seats will slow down. Your entertainment system may shut off by itself. You may have difficulties with dim lights. All of these things point to the fact that the battery is not providing enough power for these accessories to work properly.
The Engine Is Hard to Start
Another sign that your import needs a new battery is a hard-starting engine. When the battery is going bad, the engine will crank several times before it will ignite. If the battery has died completely, the engine will never start. It may simply crank until you release the key.
The Terminals Are Corroded
If you are concerned that your battery is getting too old, pop the hood and inspect it. Check to see if there is corrosion on the battery terminals or the battery cables. If you see corrosion, your battery is leaking the sulfuric acid that is found inside of it. You need a new battery.
You Can Smell Sulfuric Acid
In fact, you may even be able to smell the sulfuric acid around your battery. This odor reminds people of rotten eggs. As we just mentioned, you need a new battery if your old battery is leaking acid. When leaking acid, the battery will die sooner rather than later.
Finally, Uptown Imports in Minneapolis, MN, advises that a battery case that is warped, cracks, or bubbled points to a problem with the chemical reaction inside of the battery. You definitely need to replace your battery if the case looks damaged.