Why Does a Car Battery Run Out of Power?
1 Answers
Car batteries may suddenly run out of power due to depleted battery charge, insufficient electrolyte levels, internal battery failures, or damage. Typically, a car battery has a lifespan of around 3 to 4 years, which can vary depending on driving habits and road conditions. Temporary power loss caused by leaving headlights on or listening to music with the engine off can often be resolved by removing the battery for recharging. More details are provided below: 1. Wipe the exterior of the battery with a damp cloth to remove dust, grease, white powder, or other contaminants that may cause leakage from the terminals (positive and negative poles). Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of acidic corrosion powder on the terminals, extending the battery's lifespan. 2. Open the battery's water-filling caps and check whether the water level is within the normal range. Most batteries have upper and lower level markers for reference. If the water level is below the lower marker, add distilled water. In emergencies, filtered tap water can be used if distilled water is unavailable. Do not overfill—the water level should be between the upper and lower markers. 3. Check whether the battery is charging properly. Using a multimeter, measure the voltage across the battery terminals after starting the engine. A reading above 13V is considered normal. If the charging voltage is too low, have a professional inspect the charging system. Car batteries generally last 2 to 3 years. Beyond this period, drivers should pay extra attention to battery maintenance and replace it promptly if necessary to avoid potential hazards.
