A dead car battery can ruin a great day. However, batteries usually don’t die without any warning. At Auffenberg Ford North in O’Fallon, IL, we have a checklist of indicators that your vehicle needs a new car battery. Check out these seven signs you need battery service, and when to visit your Ford dealership for help.
1. Headlights Are Dim
If you think your headlights aren’t as bright as they have been, it may be time for a new battery. If the lights seem to dim while idling, but they perk up when you accelerate, your battery may not be holding a charge. The service department here at Auffenberg Ford North can check your battery’s voltage to determine whether you need a new battery.
2. Interior Lights Are Dim
Even if the headlights seem normal, dim interior lights, including dashboard lights, can also indicate the battery life is growing short. As with the headlights, if the interior or dash lights get brighter when you start the car, it’s likely a battery issue. Visit your Ford dealer to check whether you need a battery.
3. Engine is Slow to Turn
If your car’s engine seems sluggish when starting, don’t panic. It could be the battery. There may be other causes for this, but a bad battery is the most obvious place to start, along with checking the alternator and wiring.
4. Windows Are Slow
Although it may sound odd, if the electric windows in your car are sluggish when you roll them down, the battery may need to be replaced. If your windows operate normally when the engine is running, but slow down when using just battery power, they may be telling you it’s time for a new battery.
5. Battery Posts Are Corroded
If you raise the hood on your Ford and see corrosion (white or greenish powder) coating the battery posts, it’s time to head to the dealership. No matter what you’ve heard from a friend or relative, don’t pour a can of soda on the posts, or try baking soda and vinegar to clean the corrosion. Your battery could be undercharging, which can cause this issue. It needs to be resolved before it damages the vehicle.
6. Headlights Were Left On
This may be the most frequent cause of a suddenly dead battery. If the car won’t start and the interior dome light won’t come on, check the headlight switch. If your car doesn’t feature automatic-off headlights and the lights (even the parking lights) were left on, they probably killed the battery.
7. Battery Has Aged Out
Even with good maintenance, every battery eventually dies. It depends on several variables, but most batteries last from three to five years. At the three-year mark, it’s time to have the battery checked regularly. Whether your battery has some age on it, or you just want peace of mind while on the road, contact our service department here at Auffenberg Ford North in O’Fallon, IL and schedule an appointment. We’ll have you on the road again in no time.
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