Your car relies on several parts to run efficiently and smoothly. However, none may be as important as the battery. Without a properly functioning one, you can’t leave your driveway. As such, it’s important to recognize when it is failing and needs to be replaced. Knowing the warning signs will help ensure you get to the auto repair shop before you’re left stranded. Here are a few ways to tell if your battery is going bad.

How to Know When You Have a Failing Car Battery

1. Slow Crank

Once you turn the key in the ignition, your vehicle should start up immediately. If you notice the engine is taking longer than normal to turn over, it could be due to a dying battery. The battery is susceptible to wear and tear from usage and exposure to the elements.

Eventually, it will become less effective and need more time to create a charge for the starter. This is usually a red flag that you should visit your auto repair shop.

2. Regular Jump Starts

Most drivers will unexpectedly experience a dead car battery and need a jump start at one point or another. Although, if you find that you’re frequently getting out the jumper cables or calling a tow truck, it’s likely there’s a serious problem with your battery.

It may simply be old and unable to hold a charge like it once did, or you might have a faulty battery that’s easily drained. In either case, you’ll want to have it checked out by a mechanic.

3. Electrical Issues

The battery is responsible for powering all the electronic components of your vehicle. This includes the dashboard displays, headlights, windows, locks, and radio. When a battery starts to weaken, it will have a difficult time providing these features with enough electricity to work properly.

As a result, the lights will appear dimmer, the radio may not come on, and you won’t be able to roll the windows up and down. This is a good indication it’s time to have an auto repair specialist inspect your battery.

If you’re concerned about the condition of your car battery, stop by Fort Mitchell Garage in Park Hills, KY, to have it tested. Our highly trained technicians will identify if you need a replacement battery and make sure it’s installed correctly before you head back out on the road. We’ve proudly been entrusted to serve the community for more than a century, and we’re equipped with all the latest tools necessary to handle any auto repair or maintenance request you have. Call (859) 431-3326 to make an appointment, or visit us online for more information on the services we provide.