Vehicle batteries are often forgotten about until drivers experience starting problems. They are out-of-sight and out-of-mind components, but that shouldn’t be the case. If you’re one of those people, don’t be surprised to see a car battery dashboard warning light eventually.
The battery warning light can mean many things, including a dying battery and even a faulty alternator. Before you grab a hold of your jumper cables, take some time to look into the issue (either yourself or at an auto repair shop). The problem can be more complex than you think.
Warning lights serve a purpose: to warn you of car problems (obviously)! If the battery light continues to stay on after you’ve jump starts your car, it means there’s a serious problem. This light can come on for a number of reasons, including:
- A loose or damaged battery cable
- A problem with the alternator
- Excess corrosion/acid leak
- Damaged cells or plates inside the battery
- Incorrect wiring
When the battery warning light is illuminated, it means your battery is not getting enough voltage, or juice, to operate normally. Soon enough, you may not be able to start your engine at all. Sometimes, the battery warning light is a warning simply means it is time to replace your car battery. If your battery is 3-5+ years old, you should consider replacing it. However, you can try troubleshooting it by doing the following:
- Check for corrosion. It will look like a bluish, green substance around the battery terminals.
- Clean the battery (if corrosion is present, remove it carefully). There are many DIY solutions you can make using household items.
- Tighten clamps and tuck away loose cables.
- Test your battery charge.
For all your battery and electrical repair needs, please call or visit the repair specialists at Eurasian Auto Repair. We look forward to seeing you!
