Ultimate Car Battery Troubleshooting Guide

The zap of electricity that your car’s engine requires to start is supplied by your car’s battery. Moreover, all the electrical components of your car also depend upon the power supplied by the battery. Hence, any issues with the car’s battery will render your car non-functional.

It is crucial to be aware of the nitty-gritties of your car’s battery not only to know when it needs to be replaced but to also extend its life. This guide will be your one-stop source for all queries regarding car battery troubleshooting.

Types of Car Batteries

• Lead-acid Batteries

Lead-acid batteries are batteries that function on SLI (Starting, Lighting, and Ignition) purposes. As a result, they are typically used to supply short bursts of power for starting the engine. These batteries have a shallow charge cycle – they can be recharged quickly but their charge depletes just as fast. Moreover, such batteries get drained swiftly when the car is idle. Though these are quite inexpensive, their shallow charge cycle shortens their lifespan when compared to AGM or EFB batteries.

• Absorbed Glass Mat Batteries (AGM)

A variant of the lead-acid battery, AGM batteries are typically lead-free and are designed to meet the greater power demands of newer cars of Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW. As a result, they have a deeper charge cycle and can handle deep discharges better. These batteries can cost twice as much as lead-acid batteries.

• Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB)

As the name itself may suggest, EFB batteries are an enhanced version of the lead-acid batteries. These batteries are extremely durable and can last up to two to three times as long as lead-acid batteries. A unique feature of such batteries is that they are designed to support cars that use start and stop technology. As a result, fuel emissions are reduced making it an environment-friendly choice.

Signs of Battery Depletion/Failure

• One of the classic symptoms of a dying battery surfaces through an engine that is slow to start. If you turn the key only to hear a dull whirring sound that lasts for longer than usual before the engine finally ignites, your battery is calling out for help
• When you turn the key for ignition, if you hear a clicking sound, this could again be a sign of battery failure
• A failing car battery will not be able to supply sufficient power for the car’s electrical components such as dashboard lights, windshield wipers, power seats and windows, and headlights. So, if you find that your car’s headlights are growing dim or issue with other electronics, get a battery check done as it could become a safety hazard
• Coming on and going off of the battery light while starting the car is normal and nothing alarming. But, if you find your car battery light turning on in the middle of driving, it’s a clear indication that there’s a problem with the charging system, specifically with the alternator 

What to do if Your Car Battery Malfunctions

You’re out with your loved ones for a relaxing and enjoyable weekend road trip. It’s been a great time so far and you’ve made it half-way through your journey. There’s quite nothing like driving freely through the National Highway. All of a sudden, your car stops and just won’t start. Even after multiple attempts, the engine refuses to ignite and now you’re stranded in the middle of a highway lane with no help in sight. Well, there’s quite nothing like this experience either. The natural urge in such cases is to panic but resolve to stay calm and follow the following steps –

• Safety First

If you’re stranded in the middle of the road, the very first step is to get the car out of harm’s way by pushing it to the side of the lane. In case that is not a possibility, place the hazard sign (all cars must be equipped with one) at a good distance from your vehicle in front of it to allow other users sufficient reaction time. Do not stay in the car.

• Try to Figure Out the Root of the Issue

The next step is to locate the source of the problem. Well, though a car engine may not start for several reasons such as broken starter, spark-plug failure, lack of fuel, etc., the most common of them all is a dead car battery.

• Seek Help

For problems such as battery failure that require specialized tools and equipment, seeking help may be the only viable option. But, never seek help from people nearby regarding technical and complex issues. Rather, seek professional help. You can call a tow truck and have your car towed to a repair shop though this may prove to be unnecessarily expensive. “Then, what do I do? “You ask?

Well, you can call a professional car battery replacement company such as AIS Windshield Experts for emergency services. Simply call us at +91-9818866364 and we will be right there to help you! 

Tips and Tricks to Improve Battery Life

• Just like the human body get stiffened as a result of lack of frequent exercise and movement, the battery of your car also needs frequent ‘long' trips to keep it moving and grooving
• Premature damage and death of batteries can be avoided by performing routine check-ups for any corrosive build-ups in the battery’s terminals and battery voltage (a healthy battery will have a voltage that is 12.7V or above)
• Ensure proper battery fastening by avoiding either of the two extremes. Meaning, neither allow it to be too loosely fastened nor over tighten it
• Get proper insulation kits installed to protect your battery from extreme temperature changes
• Refrain from using car electronics such as interior lights, radio, air-conditioner, etc. when the engine is not in active mode
• Frequently check the battery’s water level and if it is below the optimum level, refill it only using distilled water
• Finally, clean your battery thoroughly from time to time to extend its life

For all services related to car battery installation, simply reach out to AIS Windshield Experts ! Known for our exceptional car battery service, our trained professionals will take care of all your car battery needs, whether you need them at your home, office or urgently on the road! So, schedule an appointment with us today!