You’re already running late for the third time this month. You run outside to crank your car and it won’t start, again. Does this scenario sound familiar? Probably so, because it seems to happen to us all at one time or another, and nine times out of ten, it is due to a weak or dead battery.
What Causes a Weakened or Dead Car Battery?
Here are a few of the most common reasons why a car battery might become drained or dead:
- Running the air conditioner or radio when the car is not completely cranked
- Allowing the car to remain idle for an extended amount of time
- The voltage regulator or diode bridge (located in the alternator) fails, preventing the battery from being charged
- Use of headlights, flashers or interior lights when car is not in operation (running)
- Frigid air which can cause the battery to become frozen
- Extreme heat that can shorten the life of the battery
How Can You Prevent a Weak or Dead Car Battery?
- Turn off all headlights, interior lights, etc., when leaving your vehicle
- Check sulfuric acid level in the battery, which can cause the car not to start if too low
- Have a professional mechanic perform a load test which can give an indication of the power/life left in the battery
- While performing a load test, also have the mechanic thoroughly clean the battery to ensure longer life
- Pay attention to warning lights just under the dashboard and have the car serviced when needed
- Be sure all battery cables are clean and securely connected
- Consider purchasing a battery heater for the winter to keep battery from freezing and becoming weak if in colder frigid weather.
What to Do If You Have a Weak or Dead Car Battery
The best way to handle a dead or weak battery is to get it to a competent, professional auto repair shop as soon as possible. If the car won’t start at all, you may need to jump-start the vehicle but only if the battery is not cracked or visibly leaking acid. Otherwise, you may need to have the car towed.
However, most battery challenges can be eliminated with regular car service and maintenance before those untimely problems occur. If you’re in or around the Las Vegas area and own a European vehicle, consider contacting Desert Oasis European Auto Service and Repair. In fact, Desert Oasis handles all types of maintenance and repair issues exclusively for European automobiles. That regular maintenance call may just be the saving grace that stops you from being stranded or stuck on the side of the road. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (702)255-4090 today.
