Your car battery is a crucial component of the life and performance of your vehicle because without it you would not be able to start your car. Not only that, but all the electrical components of the vehicle would be unusable. Keeping your car battery maintained should be one of your priorities as a vehicle owner.
The Battery Recharges While the Engine Runs
Firstly, a good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that your battery recharges while your car runs. There are many ways this can contribute to battery life. For example, if you are parked with your vehicle running, you are less likely to drain the battery. However, if you are sitting in a parked car with the engine off and headlights on, you could drain the battery and leave yourself stranded.
Secondly, if you are taking a lot of short trips involving constant stopping and starting of your car engine, you are at risk of draining the battery. This is because the battery never gets the chance to recharge between stops, draining the battery.
Finally, it is advised that you let your car run for a few minutes after it has been jump-started. This will give the battery the opportunity to recharge after it was drained and jumped. If you stop the car and try to start it up immediately after a jump, it is likely that you will not have enough charge.
Signs of an Old Car Battery
The following symptoms may be a sign that your car’s battery has reached its end and should be replaced:
- Check engine light. This is often the result of weak battery power.
- Slow-cranking engine. The engine takes longer to start and sounds sluggish.
- Low battery fluid levels.
- Swollen battery case. This could be a sign of excessive heating, draining battery life.
- “Rotten egg” smell. This is often caused by leaking, which can lead to corrosion.
- Age. Batteries usually should be replaced every three to five years, depending on the battery type, driving habits, and other factors. Frequent short trips can drain overall battery life.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms, take your car down to a local auto repair shop in San Diego to have the battery replaced and other inspections performed.
If you need work done on your car battery, come by Automobile Repair Shop San Diego today. Our team of qualified auto mechanics in San Diego will perform a complete check-up to ensure that all your vehicle’s components and systems are in great working order.
Car Battery Replacement San Diego
Automobile Repair Shop San Diego is a family-owned and operated repair shop that has provided quality car battery replacement in San Diego for years. We offer you hassle-free estimates and repairs in San Diego starting with a precise assessment of your vehicle’s current issues. We will tow your vehicle for FREE to our shop, organize a rental car, and work directly with the insurance company to streamline the repair process. We will even pay up to $500 of your deductible. Contact us today at (619) 330-0862 to see how we can help.