Why can't the vehicle battery be charged?
2 Answers
Vehicle battery failure to charge is mainly caused by plate sulfation. Below is relevant information about vehicle battery plate sulfation: 1. Introduction: Battery sulfation refers to excessive lead sulfate deposits on the battery's internal plates, leading to increased internal resistance and reduced capacity. Symptoms include a sharp voltage drop during discharge, rapid voltage rise during charging, quick temperature increase in the battery, slow density increase, premature bubble generation, or even bubbles appearing immediately upon charging. 2. Solution: For batteries used for a long time (over three years), there is generally no repair value, and they should be directly replaced with new ones. For batteries used for a shorter period with mild sulfation due to short-term excessive discharge, desulfation charging can be used for repair, but the battery capacity can only be restored to about 80% of its rated capacity.
I've been driving for twenty years and have seen plenty of issues with batteries not charging. The key is not to panic and start with the simple checks. The most common issue is the battery itself aging or failing—over time, its ability to hold a charge diminishes, making it unable to charge. Don't overlook alternator problems either; it's responsible for charging, and if the belt is loose or internal parts are worn out, the output drops, cutting off the charge. I've encountered corroded terminals, especially in humid areas, where a layer of patina causes poor contact and prevents charging. When checking, use a basic voltmeter to measure the battery voltage—if it's below 12 volts, chances are you'll need a new one. If you're not confident, it's best not to tinker and instead drive straight to a nearby repair shop to check the wiring to avoid the danger of stalling on the road. Regular maintenance and periodic battery health checks are crucial. I make it a habit to clean the terminals every three months to extend their lifespan, which saves a lot of hassle.
