Whether you’re driving a brand new car or a second-hand model from one of our online car auctions, there are few things worse than a dead battery, especially when you’re already out and a long way from home. If you’re lucky and you have the cables handy, you might be able to get a quick jumpstart from another driver. If not, then it might be a roadside breakdown visit. It’s not the worst thing in the world, but it’s certainly the kind of thing we’d all like to avoid – so if you’ve not experienced the inconvenience of a dead battery yet, here are a couple of key points to bear in mind!
Leaving your lights on
One of the most frequent reasons for a drained car battery is down to human error – basically, leaving your lights on. This can occur if you accidentally leave your headlights or interior lights on when you park your car. Modern vehicles often have systems to alert you if your lights are left on, but these systems are not always foolproof. For instance, if you park in a dimly lit area, you might not realise that the interior lights are still on. The battery’s charge can deplete quickly if the car isn’t started soon after, especially if the battery is already old or near the end of its life.
What’s more, using the car's electronics (like the radio or air conditioning) while the engine is off can further drain the battery. To prevent this, make sure to check your lights before leaving your car. It may also be useful to keep a battery charger or jump starter handy, especially if you frequently park in areas where it's easy to forget to turn off your lights.
Faulty alternator
The alternator is essential for keeping your battery charged while the engine is running. It converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy to recharge the battery and power the car’s electrical systems. A malfunctioning alternator may fail to provide adequate power to the battery, leading to a gradual loss of charge.
Symptoms of a faulty alternator include dimming headlights, unusual noises, or a warning light on the dashboard. Issues with the serpentine belt that drives the alternator can also contribute to charging problems. Thankfully, regular maintenance checks can help detect alternator issues before they lead to a dead battery. If you notice signs of a faulty alternator, it’s a good idea to have it inspected and repaired to prevent further complications, and keep your battery in good condition.
Parasitic battery drain
Parasitic drain occurs when electrical components continue to draw power from the battery even when the vehicle is off. This can be caused by malfunctioning alarm systems, aftermarket electronics, or a glove box light that doesn’t turn off. Excessive parasitic drain can lead to a depleted battery if not managed properly.
Now, diagnosing this type of drain can be challenging without the right tools. If you’ve got the skills and expertise, you can perform a battery draw test to identify which component is consuming more power than necessary – if not though, you’ll have to ask a professional.
It’s also worth bearing in mind that modern vehicles with complex electrical systems might have multiple sources of parasitic drain. Fixing this issue may involve repairing faulty wiring, replacing malfunctioning parts, or adjusting settings on aftermarket devices. Whatever the case, it’s always a good idea to turn off non-essential devices when the car is not in use, as this can go a long way to helping prevent parasitic drain.
Extreme temperatures
Extreme temperatures can significantly affect your car battery’s performance and lifespan. In cold weather, the chemical reactions inside the battery slow down, making it harder for the battery to generate sufficient power. This can result in starting difficulties and reduced battery efficiency. Extremely cold temperatures may also cause the battery's internal components to contract, potentially leading to cracks or other damage.
Equally, high temperatures can cause battery fluid to evaporate, reducing capacity and overall lifespan. Prolonged exposure to heat can also accelerate the degradation of battery materials. To protect your battery from temperature extremes, it’s a good idea to think about using a battery insulation blanket during winter and parking your car in the shade or using a reflective cover during hot weather.
Old or worn-out battery
Batteries have a limited lifespan, usually ranging from three to five years. As a battery ages, its ability to hold a charge diminishes, which can lead to frequent breakdowns and difficulties starting the vehicle. Even if a battery appears to be working, it may not be as reliable as before. Signs of an old or worn-out battery include slow engine cranking, dim lights, and frequent jump starts. Corrosion on battery terminals can also indicate wear.
So then, to keep yourself from getting caught out by a dead battery, it’s important to regularly assess its condition and determine if a replacement is needed. If your battery is nearing or exceeding its expected life, it’s wise to replace it before it fails completely. Many garages offer battery testing services to provide a clear indication of whether a replacement is necessary.
And of course, if you ever need a replacement battery (or any number of any other spare parts or components), it’s always worth taking a look through our very own online car auctions here at RAW2K. Our salvage cars are refreshed on a daily and weekly basis, and we also include makes and models available from some of the world's leading manufacturers and, as we know now, firm public favourites like Volkswagen, Ford, Renault, and many more. Why not take a look at our online car auctions, and see what you can find?
