Why does the car battery light come on in rainy weather?
2 Answers
When the battery light on the car dashboard illuminates, it indicates an issue with the car battery. A yellow light suggests that the battery is low on charge or has run out of power, which can prevent the car from starting. In this case, you can use jump-start equipment to start the car and let it run for a while to recharge the battery. After restarting, the yellow light should disappear, and the battery will return to normal. If a red light appears, it indicates not just a battery problem but a fault in the power supply system. In such cases, it is advisable to turn off all electrical devices in the car and call for roadside assistance. The reasons for the battery light coming on are as follows: Circuit malfunction: If the generator's output voltage is lower than the battery voltage, the generator is not working, or there is a fault in the power supply circuit, the car battery light will illuminate. In this situation, you should take the car to a repair shop to inspect the generator and charging circuit. Low battery charge: If the car battery is low on charge, the battery indicator light will also come on. However, the car can still be used in this condition because the battery can recharge while driving, as it relies on the generator inside the engine.
Last time when I was driving in the rain, the battery warning light came on, which really startled me. This usually indicates a problem with the charging system, such as a weak alternator or a short circuit caused by damp wiring. Rainwater had seeped through the engine gaps, wetting the wire connectors and causing a short circuit, or making the belt slip and resulting in poor charging. I pulled over to check the battery voltage and fuses, and indeed found a blown fuse. After replacing it with a new one, the light was still on, so I had to drive to the repair shop. The technician said the carbon brushes inside the alternator were burnt out, and the rain had accelerated the wear. Now, before every rainy season, I clean the engine compartment gaps and check the seals to avoid similar troubles.
