A dead battery is one of the many issues that can leave your car inoperable. Here, review a few of the most common reasons for this issue to keep you safe. If you remember these and your battery still fails, call a towing company to get you back on the road in no time.

What Causes A Car Battery To Fail?

1. Leaving Lights On

Many drivers experience dead car batteries in the morning after accidentally leaving their exterior lights on overnight. Other lights known as “parasitic drains” can also cause the battery to fail, such as those in your trunk and glove compartment. Turn off all lights and close the extra compartments before retiring your vehicle.

2. Corrosion

Since battery acid is corrosive, it is not uncommon for the connections to sustain damage. Look for corrosion that impedes the alternator’s ability to charge your car battery. Also, check for blue or green growth extending from the terminals, or white powdery residue, as both indicate severe corrosion. Clean this material with a wire brush and wipe the terminals to remove other debris that prevents the battery from charging.

3. Bad Alternator

When the alternator fails, it cannot keep topping off the battery or supplying power to other electrical systems. If you suspect an alternator issue, arrange towing services to the local auto repair shop. A technician can diagnose the problem and will replace the part’s diode, so it doesn’t keep charging when your car is off, which drains the battery.

4. Extreme Temperatures

A car battery left in 32 degrees Fahrenheit weather loses 35% of its power, while a battery in 0 degrees Fahrenheit weather loses 60% of its power. Hot weather can also drain a car battery, especially if it is older. Car batteries last three to five years, so test yours after two years if you live in a warm climate and after four years if you live in a colder region. 

If your car battery dies or you experience any other vehicle power problems in Auglaize, OH, or the surrounding counties, contact Mayse’s Towing. The locally-owned auto towing company offers roadside assistance and truck repair services in addition to hauling all vehicle makes and models. Call (419) 738-2055 today to schedule a towing service or visit the company online for more information.