How to Determine When to Replace the Battery?
2 Answers
The following three situations indicate that the battery needs replacement. Here are some details: 1. Battery warning light is on: (1) If the battery warning light is on, it means the battery is low on charge. You should check the battery status. Typically, there is an inspection window on the battery. By observing the color displayed inside, green indicates the battery is in good condition, black means the battery capacity is insufficient, and white suggests the battery is nearly depleted, requiring immediate replacement. (2) At night, you can check if the lights are dimmer than before or compare the brightness of the lights while driving versus idling. If the lights are significantly dimmer when idling compared to driving, it is advisable to replace the battery promptly to ensure driving safety. 2. Difficulty starting the engine: If starting the engine becomes difficult, feels weak, or requires multiple attempts, it may be time to check the battery. You can also inspect the color in the inspection window to determine if a new battery is needed. 3. Sound identification: If you hear a "clicking" sound when starting the engine, it indicates the battery is severely depleted and needs immediate replacement.
After driving for so many years, I know the most obvious sign of a failing battery is difficulty starting the car, especially on cold mornings when the engine cranks sluggishly. Pay attention to changes in headlight or dashboard light brightness—if they flicker or dim, it's a warning sign. Inspecting the battery's exterior is also crucial; look for corrosion or green oxide on the terminals, or bulging and leaking fluid, which indicate aging. Use a multimeter to check the resting voltage with the car off—it should read above 12.6 volts. Below 12.4 volts is risky, and a significant voltage drop during startup means it's barely holding up. Most batteries last 2-5 years, and older ones are more likely to fail in extreme weather. To avoid being stranded, I usually prepare to replace mine after two years—spending a little upfront beats breaking down halfway.
