Snethkamp Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Apr 26, 2024
Jumper cables attached to a car battery

Image via Pixabay.

Nothing is more inconvenient than your car battery dying on you. The good news is that this doesn’t happen randomly. There are multiple signs your vehicle will give you to say your battery is no longer reliable. Watch out for these signs and get a new car battery at your CDJR dealer.

Signs It’s Time to Get a New Car Battery From Your CDJR Dealer

Engine Turns Over Slowly

If your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or RAM cranks multiple times or sounds reluctant to start, a dying battery could be the culprit. As a battery ages, it deteriorates until it can no longer provide enough power to start the engine. If you don’t replace the battery, it may die and leave you stranded.

Headlights Dim When Idling

When your battery starts to die, your headlights will dim when idling and become brighter once you accelerate. This is because the battery is responsible for powering electrical components when idling. If it’s not holding enough charge, it won’t be able to power the lights, so your headlights will dim.

Your Battery Looks Corroded

If you suspect your CDJR vehicle has battery issues, pop the hood and inspect the top of the battery. If you notice a powdery white or blue residue around the terminals, your battery is corroded. You may also notice cracks or bulges in the battery casing. All these are signs that the battery is deteriorating and should be replaced immediately.

Electrical Components Are Failing

Modern CDJR vehicles have various in-cabin electrical systems like heated seats, power windows and locks, infotainment systems, power seats, and more. These components use power from the battery when the engine is off or idling. If you notice sluggish operation in these systems when the car is in idle, your battery could be failing. It is no longer able to hold enough charge to power the electrical components.

Your Battery Struggles in Cold Weather

Car batteries don’t generally perform well in cold weather because the chemical reactions start to slow down. However, a healthy battery should still be able to crank the engine properly when it’s cold. If you are forced to jump-start your car frequently during the cold season, your battery is dying. Our technicians can test it and let you know if it’s time to get a new one.

You Have an Old Car Battery

Vehicle batteries usually last around four to five years, but the lifespan depends on factors like climate, driving habits, and maintenance. Even if you are lucky to get more life out of yours, it’s a good idea to start anticipating battery replacement as soon as you hit the four-year mark. Once you start to notice minor electrical issues, replace the battery before it’s too late.

Batteries don’t last forever, so stay alert to these warning signs. Contact Snethkamp Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM in Redford, MI to order a new battery for your vehicle.