If your battery is on its last legs, heading out on the road is a risky endeavor. Learn how to spot a dying battery to avoid a breakdown or serious accident while driving. If you notice any of these four signs, it’s time to take your vehicle to the nearest auto mechanic.

How to Identify a Dying Battery

1. Aging Battery

Car batteries typically last three or four years. To learn the age of yours, check the top of the battery for a tab on the casing indicating the year and month it was manufactured. If it’s reached the three-year mark, look into getting a new battery to avoid consistent breakdowns and trouble starting the car.

2. Dimming Headlights

When people notice their headlights have dimmed, they often replace the bulbs. However, this may not address the source of the issue. If you try this method but the lights still don’t shine adequately, they may be struggling due to a dying battery. Have an auto mechanic change the battery right away to return the lights to their full brightness and improve your safety on the road.

3. Struggling Engine

As a vehicle key turns in the ignition, it sends an electrical current to the starter solenoid to start the engine. When there isn’t enough electricity to run the vehicle, you’ll hear a clicking sound repeatedly as the engine struggles to turn over. If you recently had to jump-start the battery, you may have experienced this issue. Jump-starting is just a temporary solution; it should be followed by a trip to an auto mechanic to learn more about the causes of your battery’s issues.

4. Corroded Battery Exterior

All vehicle owners should regularly open up their hoods and take a look at the battery. Inspect the unit for signs of corrosion like rust building up on the ports. This can indicate that the battery is leaking and will soon lack the power necessary to start or operate the car.

If your car battery’s struggling, let the professionals at Brothers Tire Sales in Kannapolis, NC, take a look. The family-owned company has been in the industry since 1959 and works with top brands like Bridgestone® and Michelin® to provide the best service with top products. Call these expert auto mechanics at (704) 933-2203 or visit their website for information on their large inventory of tires as well as great prices on general maintenance services and repairs.