Modern cars require a steady supply of electricity just as much as they need oxygen and gas. While the alternator generates electrical power, the battery stores it and plays a vital function in delivering voltage to various car parts, especially when the engine’s turned off. If you ever experience the following issues, you may be in need of a new car battery. Head to your nearest Nissan dealer to have it replaced by a qualified technician.
6 Signs Your Nissan Needs a New Car Battery
The Battery Light Comes On
When a failing battery causes problems with the car’s electrical supply, the battery warning light will usually come to life on your dashboard. This little battery-shaped light might also be indicating problems with the wiring or alternator. You can have a technician test each part and diagnose the fault.
The Engine’s Slow To Start
Aging or damaged batteries will either struggle to store voltage or struggle to conduct it properly through your car. And often, they’ll struggle to do both at once.
One of the times your car most needs a reliable surge of voltage is when starting the engine in the morning. So if your car becomes slow to start, your battery may be on its last legs.
Various Electrical Accessories Falter
If you experience a problem with just one of your vehicle’s many electrical accessories, that particular component may be malfunctioning. However, if many of them start to slow down and misbehave at once, your battery is most likely to blame.
Malformed Battery Casing
It’s a good idea to visually inspect your car battery from time to time, especially after it’s reached about three years of age. Extreme temperatures or excessive vibrations can sometimes damage a battery to the point where it starts to warp out of shape. If your battery has anything but perfectly straight sides, it should promptly be replaced.
Rotten Egg Smell From the Battery
When a battery swells and cracks open, battery acid can sometimes leak out. An internal short might also cause a battery to spring a leak. This emits a strong sulfury smell of rotten eggs which you might detect from inside the cabin. A leaking battery is a danger to your car and should be replaced at once.
Corrosion on the Battery’s Terminals
While inspecting your battery, also look closely at the terminals at the top. These metal terminals can sometimes begin to corrode, which usually turns white or green. Excessive corrosion prevents the terminals from conducting electricity efficiently and usually means the battery has to go.
Ask Your Nissan Dealer To Test Your Battery
Car batteries typically last from three to five years, so after your battery reaches three years of age, consider having it tested regularly at your local dealership. Using a multimeter and other specialist tools, a technician can check the strength and condition of your battery and let you know when it’s time for a new one.
Visit Tony Nissan today to have your car’s battery tested or replaced. For over 35 years, we’ve been diligently serving the drivers of Hawaii with top-notch cars and customer service.