How to Know if a Car Battery Is Dead

Every car owner should learn how to know if a car battery is dead. The vehicle will often produce symptoms that the battery is dead or dying. We perform battery testing, recharging, and replacement at Superior Mazda — here are the telltale signs of a faulty automobile battery.

Engine Fails to Start

When you turn the ignition, the engine may crank but fails to start. More often than not, this indicates a dead battery, though it’s also possible you have a faulty starter.

Failing Headlights

The battery doesn’t just start the engine. It also powers the electrical components, including the lights. The lights may appear dimmer or may flicker. The same goes if the radio fails to start or goes in and out.

Swollen Battery

Open the hood and examine the battery. A dying battery may appear swollen. This occurs due to hydrogen gas building up inside the cell and stems from the alternator charging at a rate faster than the battery can release the gas.

Battery Odor

Car batteries are mostly odorless. However, if your nose picks up on a rotten egg smell, then the battery may be in trouble. The smell stems from sulfuric acid due to an accumulation of vented gas inside the battery.

Aging Battery

Car batteries last three to five years on average. If your battery is past that age, and you experience any of the above symptoms, then there’s a high likelihood you have a faulty battery.

Learn How to Know if a Car Battery Is Dead at Our MAZDA Dealership

If you’re having starting issues, drive or get your vehicle towed to Superior Mazda. If the problem is the battery, we’ll recharge or replace it depending on its condition and age. Visit us in Bentonville, AR today!