What does it mean when the battery light flashes?
2 Answers
The reasons for the battery light flashing: 1. The battery is undercharged, especially in cars that have been left unused for a long time; 2. After the battery has been used for a period of time, sulfation naturally accumulates on the plates, affecting the battery's normal operation and causing the battery light to illuminate. This needs to be promptly cleared to resolve the issue. Use a high current (within 5h rate) to fully charge the battery, then discharge 30% while keeping the electrolyte temperature below 40 degrees Celsius. This helps to wash away minor sulfation on the plate surfaces, causing it to desorb, dissolve, and convert back into active material. Repeating this process three to four times can repair the sulfation phenomenon in the car battery.
I've been driving for decades and have encountered many instances of the battery light flashing. Every time I see that light flickering on the dashboard, I know there's an issue with the charging system. The most common problems are the alternator not working, causing the battery not to charge, or the battery itself aging and failing to hold a charge. Once during a long trip, the light suddenly started flashing, and upon checking, I found the alternator belt was loose. I quickly found an auto repair shop to tighten it. If not addressed promptly, the car could stall on the road, which is extremely dangerous. Nowadays, I regularly check for cracks in the belt and oxidation on the battery terminals. Taking preventive measures can save a lot of trouble. A flashing battery light is no small matter—it directly affects the vehicle's stable operation. I recommend drivers develop the habit of glancing at the dashboard before driving and pulling over to troubleshoot if any issues are detected.
