Battery Service
Stay Charged with Top-Notch Battery Care
The battery in your vehicle is responsible for starting the engine and feeding power to all the electronic components. When battery health declines, it loses the ability to hold a charge, potentially leaving you stranded when you least expect it. Here's how to recognize common warning signs that your vehicle's battery may need service or replacement.
If your vehicle needs battery maintenance or replacement, trust our team at Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair for expert battery support.
How Vehicle Batteries Work
In short, a vehicle’s battery feeds power to the electronic systems in the vehicle. When the vehicle is in motion, the alternator in turn feeds power back to the battery to keep it charged. This is why if you keep your headlights on overnight or leave an interior lamp on, your battery may require jump-starting in the morning.
The most common type of battery used in vehicles today is a conventional lead-acid battery, also called a wet-cell battery. Inside, a battery electrolyte solution undergoes a chemical reaction with lead plates submerged in the liquid. This creates electricity, which is stored in the battery for later use.
Most healthy vehicle batteries should hold a charge of around 12.6 volts when the vehicle is turned off and several volts higher when the vehicle is running. If you’re noticing issues with flickering dashboard lights or a slow engine start, it may be due to an intermittent battery voltage drop or loose connections to the battery terminals.
It’s best to have a professional run battery diagnostics and battery load testing to determine the cause of voltage problems. When you need help with battery testing and maintenance, our associates at Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair will make sure the job gets done right.
Common Signs of Battery Problems
If your battery’s lifespan is coming to an end, you may begin to notice a few indications that something may be wrong. When these problems arise, it’s essential to visit a professional for battery reconditioning or battery replacement. Here are some issues drivers typically encounter with their batteries.
Sudden, Slower Start
When the battery voltage is too low, your starter may not get enough power to get the engine running. You may also hear a buzzing or repetitive clicking sound when turning the ignition.
If your dashboard lights or radio appear to be a little dim but still operational, it likely means the battery needs charging. However, be sure to practice basic battery safety to avoid electrocution or contact with battery acid. If you need battery service, our experienced team at Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair will take care of it.
Unusual Smell From the Battery
There should never be any odor emanating from your car battery. If there is, it probably means battery acid has eaten through the casing of the battery and is releasing gas. Our experts at Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair will handle recycling your old battery and installing a new one so you can quickly get back on the road.
Check Engine Light Is On
Oftentimes, your check engine light will turn on or start blinking when a problem is detected with your battery. It’s important to never ignore this warning. Visit a reputable mechanic as soon as possible to avoid an unexpected breakdown. Rely on our associates at Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair to get to the bottom of your check engine light, test your battery capacity, and replace the battery if needed.
Vehicle Starts, Then Quickly Dies
Even if your battery has just enough power to get the engine started, a lack of adequate amperage can cause disruptions between various sensors and the electronic control unit. After a few seconds, the engine may simply turn off.
A quick test with a multimeter will typically reveal whether the problem is with the battery or a poor connection between other electronic components. If you’re experiencing this issue, it’s advisable to have your battery inspected by a seasoned professional as soon as possible. At Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair, our associates have the tools and know-how to accurately address the root cause of your battery or engine troubles.
Battery Corrosion
It’s not unusual to notice an accumulation of green, blue, or white crystalline powder on the terminals of your battery. This is the result of battery corrosion caused by overcharging the battery or environmental factors such as excess moisture.
While a little corrosion is usually nothing to worry about, too much of it can make it harder for your battery to charge and may interfere with the battery’s ability to communicate with other electronics. At Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair, we’ll take care of all the preventive maintenance needed to keep your battery in top working condition all year round.
Trust Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair for Fast, Reliable Battery Service
Don’t risk a faulty or worn-out vehicle battery ruining your travel plans. If you’re noticing any problems like these, come visit our team at Exhaust Plus - Complete Auto Repair, 1401 Crestwood Ave, West Salem, WI 54669, or call us at (608) 786-5400 for fast, reliable battery service.
