Common Car Battery Problems and Fixes: A Handy Guide

You were packed and ready for the annual road trip. The sandwiches were baked and stuffed in the morning. The sleeping bags of all members were squeezed into the trunk, too. What’s more? You had pre-saved the playlist so that nobody could ask for the aux. And now the engine refuses to turn on, no matter how many times you attempt ignition. Your battery has run into trouble, and at this point, even a ghastly nightmare seems nothing in comparison. 

If these are your circumstances, this guide can help. Car batteries tend to become faulty, and figuring out what has caused the problem can be stressful. Additionally, fixing the problem post-diagnosis is not the simplest either. But with enough awareness, you can tackle your car battery issue and ride into the sunset for that trip with nothing holding you back.

How Car Batteries Work?

You can easily spot a car battery problem if you have a grasp of how they actually work. Batteries are fitted with several parts that work together to kickstart your engine. It is the same operation that supplies the appliances inside the car with power. 

Batteries or lead-acid batteries sit soaked in a chemical solution called electrolyte. It is basically a combination of water and sulfuric acid. These components are responsible for releasing electrons on interaction, which generate electricity. When you turn the key, the reaction is set in motion. The produced electrons generate electricity, which then powers the starter motor, and subsequently the engine of the car. 

Once the engine has begun running independently, the alternator of car takes over. It keeps the car battery charged and in top-tier condition until it is needed again. In case of a battery issue, whether it’s damage or quick draining, you can tell that the device is unable to carry out the usual process. Subsequently, the engine cannot get its due power to start, let alone appliances.

Most Common Causes of Battery Problems in Car

A car battery problem may be caused by more than one reason. You can diagnose the problem by yourself when you’re aware of the possibilities. Here are a few of the most common reasons that your battery might have run into trouble:

Ageing of the Battery

Every battery undergoes a natural wear and tear process. So as your car battery ages, its internal parts can begin to disintegrate. Even if your alternator is in top condition, the battery will not be able to hold a charge. In the best-case scenario, it will drain quickly. So if it has been a while since you got the battery changed, you know why it is malfunctioning. Generally, car dealers advise replacing your battery every  3-5 years. Still, you can get a new one in case your battery has died early.

Fix:

• Purchase a strong battery and get the drained one replaced with it
• Make sure to monitor the water levels to avoid early battery death

Extreme Temperatures

The components in your car’s battery act in tandem with the chemical solution in which it is placed to power the engine. And as we know, chemical solutions are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Extreme heat or cold can affect the chemical reaction, along with the production of electrons. Exposure to hot temperatures can vaporise the chemical solution of the battery. Subsequently, exposure to extreme cold will adversely impact the battery’s ability to hold a charge for long durations.

Fix:

• Explore adaptive batteries that can adjust to extreme temperatures without damage
• Make sure to park your car in a secure place to avoid subjecting the battery to extreme weather conditions

Active Appliances

Your vehicle might run into a car battery problem if the lights and appliances are left on in it frequently. Since a lot of cars possess an integrated mechanism for turning appliances off when the ignition is turned off, people make the mistake of not checking twice. Not all cars, however, are equipped with such an automatic feature. You need to manually ensure that radios, lights or any other appliances cannot drain your battery overnight.

Fix:

• Make sure that you turn off all appliances before exiting the car.
• Double-check the headlights and air conditioner. You can also look for signals on the dashboard to be certain that everything has been turned off.

High Idle Time

Car dealers flag a specific driving habit when you’re purchasing a vehicle. They advise against short trips. When your car battery is in use for a long time, the alternator is able to charge it fully. It’s like how in most electronic battery-fitted gadgets, usage promotes longevity. So, the lower the idle time of your car and its battery, the later it’ll begin to drain.

Fix:

• Do not make short journeys in your car. 
• Go for long drives or trips in your car so your battery remains in use and the alternator is able to recharge it to its full capacity.

Corrosion

Your car battery problem can arise from battery life being slashed short by corrosion. If the plates in your battery have begun to rust or the terminals have come loose, the battery will no longer be able to hold a charge. It will drain quickly, even if it’s in the middle of use.

Fix:

• Ensure cleaning of the terminals from time to time.
• Get the internal components of the battery checked for loose connections or breakage.

In case you’re unable to fix the car battery problem or it does not fall under this list, seek professional help. Avoid poking around under the hood unless you’re familiar with their workings. It could potentially lead to more complications with the battery.

Tips  For Car Battery Maintenance

A few simple maintenance habits can keep your battery healthy and operational for the promised duration of time.

• Drive your car regularly to keep the battery components and alternator functioning well.
• Limit the load being put on your battery due to the overuse of appliances. Turn off the air conditioner, radio or lights when not in use.
• Ensure that the clasp holding the battery down is working properly and that your battery is secure under the hood.
• Perform inspections on the battery from time to time. Keep an eye out for breakage, leaks or weird smells.
• Time replacement of the battery every 3-5 years to avoid breakdowns or unexpected battery deaths

Power Your Drives with Livfast’s Top-Notch Cranking Standards Conclusion

A reliable automotive battery cranks quickly and guarantees durability. It also requires little to no maintenance. With corrosion-resistant technology and safety from hazards, Livfast’s automotive batteries make your driving experiences seamless and enjoyable. These high-tech batteries can prevent your travel plans from going for a toss and make that annual trip every bit memorable. Find your perfect battery solutions with us and make the most of your driving experiences.