Your car battery gives your vehicle enough power to start and acts as a surge protector for its electronic components. If your engine won’t turn, a drained battery could be to blame. The cause could be a simple battery issue, or you may need help from a mechanic. Here are some common reasons to consider. 

Why Did My Car Battery Die?

1. Lights Left On

If you’ve left your headlights on, it will drain the car’s battery over time. Most new vehicles are equipped with automatic shut-offs, but this is a common issue for cars made before the early 2000s. 

It’s also possible for the battery to drain if you’ve left a door or trunk open, causing interior lights to be left on. Always double-check that every fixture is turned off before walking away. 

2. Alternator Problems 

Your vehicle’s alternator charges the battery by turning mechanical energy into electricity. It also helps power features such as lights, automatic windows, air conditioning, and the radio. 

The alternator diode is a component that converts alternating current into direct current, and when these features fail, it can prevent the battery from charging. Mechanics use multimeter tools to test diodes to see if they need to be replaced. 

3. Extreme Temperatures

Excessively hot or cold temperatures can cause sulfate crystals to accumulate, damaging the battery’s lifespan. If you’re unable to start your car after temperatures have risen above 100 degrees or below 10 degrees, your battery may have reached the end of its lifespan. 

Swapping out the battery and storing your vehicle in a garage can prevent the issue from happening again.

4. Loose Connection or Corrosion

If the above causes don’t seem to be the reason for your battery issues, check under the hood to get a close look at your battery. Search for signs of corrosion or dirt buildup. 

If grime gets into the connectors, it could prevent the battery from working as it should. Use a toothbrush to gently slough away dirt. If the cables or connections are corroded, they’ll need to be replaced. 

5. Parasitic Drain

Your battery continues to power certain features of your car even when your vehicle is turned off. For instance, your alarm system, clock, and radio all draw energy nonstop. The battery can handle this small energy draw, but an issue like faulty wiring or fuses can cause the battery life to drain completely. If you’ve ruled out other battery problems, a mechanic can diagnose this issue and find the source of the drain.

If you have persistent battery issues or other car troubles, turn to Puma’s Auto Care for an accurate diagnosis and timely repairs. These skilled mechanics help drivers in Brooklyn, NY, get back on the road and are known for their courtesy, quality, and precision. Schedule an appointment by calling (718) 272-6306 or see a full list of services online.