Your car draws power from its battery every time you use the windshield wipers on a rainy day or turn on the headlights at night. Over time, the battery can lose its charge and affect how these components function. A dead battery can lead to a variety of car maintenance issues, so it’s important to recognize the early signs of a problem. The following tips will help you identify issues related to the battery, so you know when to seek professional care.

How to Tell Your Car Battery Is Dying

1. Problems With Electrical Parts

Your battery transports power to the various electrical parts of the car, including the power seats, headlights, dashboard lights, and windshield wipers. If any of these items stop working or display signs that their power source is low, then the battery most likely needs to be replaced. During your next car maintenance checkup, have the mechanic test the battery to determine whether it has enough charge to power the vehicle.

2. Strange Odors

A malfunctioning battery sometimes emits a gas that smells like sulfur or rotten eggs. This is more likely to occur when the battery freezes, overcharges, or experiences a short. If the smell gets stronger when you inspect the hood, then it’s a warning sign that you need a new battery immediately. The sulfur byproduct that emits the unpleasant stench can corrode the engine’s internal parts, which could lead to extensive car maintenance and repairs.

3. Warning Lights

You probably recognize the check engine light on your dashboard, but you may know that there’s a similar warning light for the battery. An icon in the shape of a battery will illuminate when there’s a problem with the part. Usually, the appearance of this icon not only means that there’s an issue with the battery, but it also indicates a problem with the alternator, the component that charges the battery and keeps it charged while the engine runs.

If your car shows any signs of battery failure, take it to the experts at Daves Auto in Cheney, WA, for fast service. For 29 years, this family-operated auto repair shop has provided a variety of car maintenance services, including engine tuneups, electrical repairs, and wheel alignments. They use the latest diagnostic technology to identify problems and find the most effective solutions. Their work comes with a 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty. In addition to car maintenance, they offer towing services throughout the Cheney area. Call (509) 235-6123 to request service, and visit them online to find out how they’ll keep you safe on the road.