United Tire and Service News

Why is my car battery dying?

1. How old is your battery? Like all things, batteries have a limited lifetime. Most car batteries last about four years depending on driving habits and environmental factors. 
2. Keeping headlights or interior lights on is a good way to drain your battery. It's always a good idea to double check and make sure your lights are off before leaving your car. 
3. A weak or poor connection could make it seem like you have a dead battery. You may just need to disconnect and reconnect your battery to make sure the connection is good. 
4. Charging system problems could also lead to a dead battery. 
    

Is it my battery or my alternator? 

It's easy to panic when your car won't start. But if you’re ever put in that situation, try to determine if it’s your battery, your alternator, or the starter. Together these three parts act as one to start your car. 

What are the signs of a dead battery?

• If you attempt to start the car and there is no “whining” sound
• If you jump your car and get the engine started, but the car will not start again once it’s shut off

More dead battery warning signs

What are the signs the alternator has failed?
 

• You can hear a growling or whining sound right before the alternator gives out. 
• If you smell burning rubber it's a good indication that your alternator is overheating. 
• You notice your headlights or dash lights flicker or get extra dim or bright, or your gauges are behaving strangely
• If you jump your car and the engine dies immediately after

How long does a car battery last?

When should I replace my car battery?

• Headlights dim yellow instead of white
• Dashboard battery warning light is on
• Electronic accessories fail
• Engine cranks more slowly
• Dome lights dim
• Car horn sounds unusual
• The battery case is swollen or cracked
• A smell of sulfur or rotten eggs
• The battery is more than three years old

Is my battery dead if the lights turn on?