Are you facing troubles with your car’s battery? Confused about whether you should buy a new battery or alternator? Use our ultimate guide on how to check car battery to understand the issue better. Keep reading to know more.
How do I know my car’s battery is bad?
Below are the signs and symptoms that point towards a bad car battery:
Illuminated battery light: This is a classic sign of problems in your car battery. If you find the battery light in the dashboard illuminated, do get your battery checked as soon as possible.
Engine cranks: If you notice engine cranks while starting your car, a poor battery is often why this happens.
Frequent jump starts: Jumped starting your vehicle often? Maybe it’s time to check the battery and assess its health.
Dim lights: If your car lights are dim than usual, they could be because of a low battery charge. Examine the lights first. If they are in good condition, check the battery.
Car won’t start: This is no rocket science: a dead battery means your car won’t start.
How to check car battery using a voltmeter
Step 1
Turn off your ignition and remove the battery’s positive terminal cover.
Step 2
Now, connect the positive lead of the voltmeter – it’s usually red – to the positive terminal on the battery.
Step 3
Similarly, connect the battery’s negative terminal to the negative lead of the voltmeter.
Step 4
After successfully connecting the positive and negative lead, check the reading on the voltmeter.
Step 5
The reading should be between 12.4 volts to 12.7 volts if your battery is in good condition. However, a reading lower than 12.4 volts means your battery needs to be charged.
If the reading is lower than 12.2 volts, the battery needs to trickle charge – slow charge – and check again. On the other hand, if the reading is higher than 12.9 volts, it means you’ve excessive charge. To remove the excessive charge, turn on the high beams.
How to check car battery using a multimeter
Step 1
Firstly, turn on the headlights to remove any surface charge. After a few minutes, turn off the lights.
Step 2
Now, set the multimeter to 15 to 20 volts.
Step 3
Connect the positive and negative terminals of the battery to the multimeter.
Step 4
Check the reading on the multimeter. If the reading is not between 12. 4 volts to 12.7 volts, that means you have a faulty battery.
Step 5
Next, start the car and check the voltage. If it drops below five while the car is running, it means you need to replace your car battery soon.
Frequently asked questions
What is the life span of a car battery?
Your battery life span depends on the vehicle’s condition and how well you maintain it. If you regularly stick to your vehicle maintenance, your battery will last up to five to six years.
What is the cost of a battery?
A standard car battery, on average, can cost you anywhere between $50 to $100. For premium types, you need to spend $100 to $200.
How long can a battery last without driving?
Without driving, your car battery can last up to six months, provided you park it in a safe place, detach your car battery and recharge it every 12 weeks.
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