Your car’s battery is responsible for everything from starting the engine to powering all the interior and exterior lights. Unfortunately, they don’t last forever, but they do provide explicit warning signs when it’s time for a new one. If you pay attention to these signs, you can avoid getting stranded on the side of the road and having to call a tow truck.

5 Car Battery Warning Signs to Pay Attention To

1. Check Engine or Car Battery Light

If the life of your battery is diminishing, you may see either the check engine or the car battery light illuminate on the dashboard. This may be your first—and sometimes only—warning that there’s a problem, so get it checked out right away.

2. Slow-Starting Engine

The battery is what cranks your engine when you turn the car on. If the engine cranks slower than usual, it’s a clear sign your car might not start the next time you go to drive it. Unfortunately, a jump-start won’t help a dead battery, so you’ll likely need a tow truck if your vehicle fails to start.

3. Leaking or Low Fluid Levels

Like many other parts of your vehicle, your battery contains fluid. You can check the fluid level in the clear part of the casing. If it’s low, there’s probably a leak, which can cause corrosion, so take it to an auto shop for an inspection.

4. Bloated Battery Casing

A bloated casing can result from exposure to extreme hot or cold temperatures. It’s common in vehicles that haven’t been driven enough during extremely cold winters or hot summers, and in most cases, you’ll need a tow truck to get to a repair shop.

5. Battery Over 4 Years Old

As previously mentioned, batteries don’t last forever. In most cases, you’ll get four to five years out of yours. Check the manufacture date on the casing, and if it’s over four years old, take it to a repair shop for inspection. A mechanic can tell you how much longer you can expect it to last.

If you pay attention to the above warning signs, you address repairs before getting stranded. Of course, the stress of life makes it easy to overlook these sometimes-subtle signs, so if you do find yourself stranded with a dead battery, call for a tow truck. Northgate Towing offers 24/7 roadside assistance to drivers in the greater Cincinnati, OH, area. If possible, they will jump-start your vehicle. Otherwise, their towing service can deliver your vehicle to your chosen auto repair shop or their own. Visit their website to learn more about their services or call (513) 825-8036 in an emergency.