Hi, my name is Angela, and as the wife of a mechanic, I was constantly tripping over car parts and complaining about the rows of project cars lining our garden. However, after a few years, I quit complaining and actually found joy in the art of auto repair. Inspired by that classic book, "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance", I decided to start working on cars with my husband. This blog is the culmination of everything I have learned and more. I hope you enjoy reading it and that my tips and ideas guide you toward a healthier car and a happier, safer driving experience.
While working on something under the hood of your car, you may have noticed that your car's battery is starting to look worn. Since this reminds you that it is rather old, you may be wondering whether or not it's time to get a new battery.
Since the battery does not show advanced signs of issues, such as corroded cables, you may be having a difficult time determining if a replacement is needed. Below are a couple of early warning signs for which you can look that means it is time to replace the battery before it completely goes dead.
1. You Smell an Odour Resembling Rotten Eggs Coming out of the Vents
One early warning sign that your car's battery is going bad is the presence of an odd odour coming from your cabin vents. This odour will be foul, resembling the one associated with rotten eggs.
If you are detecting this smell, this usually indicates that there is an electrical issue inside the battery, such as a broken or frayed wire. Because the battery contains sulphuric acid, the sparks from the broken or exposed wire will burn off the sulphur, which then creates the odour you are smelling.
If there is a broken wire, the risk of the battery shorting out is greatly increased. The odour's presence is an indicator that you need to replace the battery as soon as possible.
2. You Notice the Interior Lights and Headlamps Dimming When You Plug in a Phone Charger
Another sign that your battery is on the verge of failing completely is when you start noticing the interior lights and headlamps dimming. This dimming is especially noticeable when you plug in a phone charger.
When you plug in the charger, it causes a spike in the energy demand. If the battery is going bad, it will not be able to handle the needs of the lights, headlamps and the accessory at the same time, which will decrease the electricity supplied to all three.
Along with a rotten egg odour and dimming headlights, you may also find that your car is harder to start after you leave it sitting overnight if the battery is going bad. If you continue to drive with a bad battery, you may find yourself stuck somewhere needing to jumpstart it. Before this happens, contact a car battery provider near you for help with selecting the right one for your car's make and model as well as get assistance choosing an ideal option for you and your car's needs.
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