Why does the car battery light come on in rainy weather and then return to normal after a while?
2 Answers
Normally, the service life of a car battery is 2-3 years, and the original battery of a new car can last more than 3 years. Therefore, if the battery has been in use for about two years, you should pay attention as its service life may have expired. At this point, it is advisable to conduct frequent inspections and perform early detection. If crystallization appears on the battery, it is a sign of aging. Over time, batteries may develop crystallization. First, use boiling water to clean the crystallization thoroughly, and then polish the battery terminals with gauze. Next, check for any cracks between the terminals and the battery case. If cracks are found, seal them with asphalt. Additionally, when adding electrolyte, ensure the amount is appropriate and avoid overflow. After securing the battery clamps, apply Vaseline or grease for insulation, and the issue should be resolved. Address or replace any problems early to avoid sudden battery failure during use, which could lead to losses. Regularly monitor whether the battery voltage is within the normal range and check the status indicators on the battery. If the car does not show signs of power loss and starts smoothly every time, it indicates the battery is in good condition. Also, be aware of poor driving habits that can damage the battery: 1. Forgetting to turn off lights or electronic devices when exiting the car, 2. Not turning off the air conditioning before shutting down the engine, 3. Using electrical equipment excessively without starting the car. Furthermore, a battery tester can be used to check the battery's health. If the battery's health is below 10%, it needs to be replaced; otherwise, the car may fail to start if the battery fails.
I've encountered this issue several times where the car battery light comes on briefly in rainy weather and then returns to normal. The cause is usually moisture affecting the alternator or electrical circuits. The alternator is belt-driven, and wet roads make the belt more prone to slipping, leading to insufficient power generation and the light turning on. Once the rain stops and the belt dries, power generation returns to normal and the light goes off. Wet electrical connections, such as battery terminals, can also cause short circuits or oxidation, leading to intermittent contact. Insufficient power generation results in irregular charging, which can drain the battery faster and cause long-term damage to the car. I believe this shouldn't be ignored—check the belt tension and clean the connections, or you might end up stranded on a rainy day. Simple maintenance like tightening the belt can help prevent issues. Mechanics often recommend a pre-rainy season check to avoid the danger of stalling mid-drive.
