Common Signs That it's Time for a Battery Replacement
There is nothing more upsetting than getting in your car, turning the key and nothing happens. You keep trying, but it still won't start, and you know the next step is to call your boss in Horsham, PA, and tell them you won't be in because your battery is dead. Your vehicle's battery is one of the most important devices, without it, your vehicle will not start. This situation can be avoided by knowing the signs of a failing battery. To avoid the risk of being stranded, here are a few of the most common signs that it's time to visit the Chapman Ford of Horsham service department for a new battery.
One of the first signs of a problem with your battery is a bad odor. If you open the hood and smell a rotten egg scent, you should have the battery inspected as soon as possible. Most batteries are filled with a mixture of sulfuric acid and water, so as the battery wears, the water and acid start to evaporate, which may cause the battery to overheat and cause the bad odor. If you notice this odor, it's important to have the battery replaced as soon as possible, because the sulfuric acid may cause corrosion to other engine parts.Â
Slow Cranking EngineÂ
Although the cold weather in Horsham, PA can sometimes cause your vehicle to be slow starting, a slow cranking engine is also a common sign of an issue with the battery, especially when the temperature outside is warm. Your vehicle needs a lot of power to start and that power is produced by the battery. Once the vehicle is started, the alternator helps to keep the battery going by replacing the power used to start the engine and run the electronics, but you need a battery in good condition in order to start the process of allowing the alternator to take over and do the work. If you hear a clicking sound when turning the key, it generally means the battery isn't strong enough to crank the engine. If this happens, getting a jump from another battery may help, but you should have the battery tested and replaced as soon as possible.
Age of the Battery
An automobile battery usually lasts about five years, but the lifespan will vary depending on the exposure to extreme temperatures and whether or not the battery goes through full charge cycles. The best way to avoid being stranded is to have the certified technicians at Chapman Ford of Horsham test the battery for a better idea of how much life it has left. If you aren't sure of the age of the battery, you can usually find a manufacture date on the battery case.Â
Contact Chapman Ford of Horsham for Battery Service
If you have been having issues with the engine cranking, the dashboard light comes on or the battery is reaching the end of its lifespan, you should have the battery tested by a professional technician. The sooner you replace a failing battery, the less risk there will be of getting stranded. Whether you need a battery replacement or you have concerns about other underlying issues with your vehicle, contact Chapman Ford of Horsham, we'll help you get your vehicle back to running at its best.
