During summer, high temperatures can affect car performance. It's not uncommon, for instance, for the battery to give out. Heat causes the distilled water and sulfuric acid inside the unit to evaporate. As a result, the battery won't have enough power to supply to the starter and engine. Here are a few telltale signs the battery is failing so you can avoid a breakdown and the need for emergency towing service.

How to Tell If Your Car Battery Is About to Die

1. Electrical Issues

The lead and lead dioxide plates inside the battery are submerged in sulfuric acid. This causes the plates to produce electrons, which create the electricity needed to operate a vehicle's electrical components. If the plates can't complete the chemical reaction to make electrons, you'll have problems using power windows and seats. Headlights might appear dimmer than usual, and the radio, windshield wipers, and dashboard lights might not work either. 

2. Bad Smell

A car battery releases electrolyte and electrolyte vapors. These acidic substances can eat away at the outside of the unit over time, causing corrosion and leaks. When gas seeps out of the battery, you might notice a rotten egg smell when you open the hood. The aroma is mercaptan. This gas additive intentionally smells bad to alert those nearby of a gas leak.

3. Slow Engine Starts

When a battery has difficulty converting chemical energy to electrical energy, the voltage produced won't be powerful enough to charge the starter motor. The motor won't spin fast enough to turn over the crankshaft, which means it could take a few attempts before the engine starts.

Whether your car battery died due to the summer heat or another issue, the professionals at Cogswell Towing are standing by to help. Since 1949, the company has been a reliable source for emergency towing and roadside assistance for drivers stranded throughout Russellville, Atkins, Danville, Dardanelle, Dover, Morrilton, and Pottsville, AR. They boast multiple tow trucks in their fleet, so the team is able to respond to each customer's needs quickly. Call (479) 968-4665 to request emergency towing services, or visit them online to learn more.