How to Fix a Car Battery That Won't Charge?
3 Answers
You can go to a repair shop for repair and activation. The repair shop will use a fast charger to activate the battery and charge it. If the battery cannot be activated, it can only be replaced with a new one. Seek professional technicians for inspection and repair. If left unused for a longer period, it should be recharged every few months to prevent the battery from becoming unusable due to prolonged discharge.
As someone who frequently works on car repairs, I find it tricky when the battery won't charge, and it requires step-by-step troubleshooting. A common cause is oxidized or corroded battery terminals. First, clean the terminal connections with baking soda water and an old toothbrush to prevent green copper rust from blocking the current. Then, use a multimeter to measure the voltage—if it's below 12 volts, the battery might be aging or the alternator could be faulty. Checking the alternator isn't difficult: start the engine and see if the dashboard lights flicker abnormally. If the charger doesn't respond, the battery might be internally damaged and need replacement—don't forget to disconnect the negative cable first to avoid sparks. Regular maintenance is key: clean the terminals every few months to extend the battery's lifespan and save yourself a lot of trouble.
That time my old car battery just wouldn't charge no matter what, I managed to fix it myself after struggling for hours with some simple methods. First check if the terminal connections are corroded - wipe off any patina with a towel dipped in white vinegar, then try if the charger can charge it. If it still doesn't work, check the alternator output - after starting the engine listen for any abnormal noises, as alternator failure is a common cause. I've found car batteries typically last 3-5 years, so don't push your luck beyond that - replace it promptly. Preventing short circuits is also crucial - wear gloves when working to avoid electric shock. In daily driving, turn off unnecessary lights to reduce battery load and prevent issues.
