Your car battery is an important component of your vehicle. Not only does it provide the energy necessary to start and run your car, but it also gives power to all of its electrical components. Think of the radio, interior and exterior lights, dashboard signals and power windows. When you have a dead battery, these things will not work, and you will not be able to operate your vehicle.
The last thing you want is to be stranded somewhere with a dead auto battery. That is why it is good to know what some of the symptoms of a dying battery are so that you can replace it before it dies completely. Some of the signs include:
- Slow engine start
- Problems with electrical components
- Smell of rotten eggs
- Dimming headlights
- You need to press the gas pedal to get the car started
Optimally, it is best to replace the battery before it goes completely dead. However, you may not notice the signs soon enough. If the engine does not start at all, and there are no sounds when you turn the ignition, it is most likely a dead battery.
What Auto Batteries Should You Be Upgrading to
When replacing your current battery, you may be wondering if you should upgrade it. This is recommended if your vehicle needs more energy than what your battery has been providing. For example, you may want to upgrade your battery if you live in an area with harsh, cold temperatures in the winter. You will also need more power if you run your vehicle’s electronic components frequently when the engine is not running.
If you want a battery to perform better in cold weather, look for one with a higher cold cranking amp, shown as CCA. For playing video or audio electrical components without running your engine, upgrade to a deep-cycle battery because it allows for a long-lasting power supply without damaging the battery.
Why Investing in a Battery Charger for Car Is Worth the Money
Along with ensuring your car battery is adequate for the power needs of your vehicle, investing in a battery charger for car is worth it. First of all, you do not require the use of a second vehicle as you would if you were using jumper cables. A charger is also extremely safe and easy to use. You can find a battery charger for all needs, whether you drive an economy car or an SUV. They are also usable on motorcycles, boats and personal watercrafts.
To find the right one, make sure you know the details of your battery, such as the number of volts and whether it is a lead acid, AGM or deep-cycle battery. Most battery chargers work on all major types and will automatically select the right voltage to charge your battery. Having a charger on hand is convenient and gives you peace of mind.
When shopping for a new battery or charger, consult with experts, such as those at AutoZone. They use a vin decoder to easily identify the parts required specifically by your vehicle.