May 17, 2024

 

Modern cars require a steady supply of electricity for a significant number of components, including the engine’s sensors and spark plugs. The battery plays a vital role in this regard and should be as carefully maintained as any other car part. If you suspect that your battery is starting to fade, have it promptly replaced with a new car battery at your trusted Nissan dealership in Vancouver, WA. Here are five key warning signs to look out for. 



Need a New Car Battery for Your Nissan? Here are Signs to look Out For

Your Battery Is Bulging or Misshapen A car mechanic replaces a battery | Vancouver, WA

It’s sometimes possible to know when a battery is finished simply by looking at it. If your battery’s casing is swelling or even mildly warped out of shape, you’ll need to have it replaced at once. Damaged battery walls mean the battery has undergone irreparable damage from excessive vibrations, extreme cold, internal shorts, or another age-related problem.



Your Battery’s Emitting Bad Smells 

When damaged, car batteries can occasionally crack open or leak through cracks around the terminals. Leaking battery acid or gas will usually emit a strong sulfury smell, which you’ll catch when you open the hood. Leaking batteries are also no longer fit for safe use and should be discarded at once.



Your Battery Looks Corroded 

It’s important to keep your battery clean, including the terminals. Corrosion tends to appear and build on car battery terminals over time. You can often clean mild corrosion away with water, baking soda, and a brush with hard bristles. However, an excess of corrosion usually means you need a new battery. 



Your Electronics Are Faltering 

As mentioned, many car parts depend on the battery, including the headlights, phone charger, infotainment system, air conditioner, and power windows. If just one of these components malfunctions, there’s probably an isolated fault. But if multiple electronics start to misbehave at the same time, a bad battery is more likely to blame.  



Your Battery Struggles During Winter

The coldest months of the year provide the litmus test when it comes to car batteries. Extreme cold slows down the chemical reaction inside car batteries, making it much harder for them to hold and conduct electricity. In particular, older, dying batteries struggle to keep working properly throughout winter.



How Often To Replace Your Battery at Your Nissan Dealership

When well-maintained, most car batteries last three to five years. So after three years, it’s wise to keep a closer eye on the condition of your battery. As soon as you notice the above issues, head to your local dealership for a replacement.

Visit Alan Webb Nissan in Vancouver, WA, today to have your car battery checked or replaced. Our locally trusted dealership provides an amiable, pressure-free environment for all your vehicle purchasing, financing, and servicing needs.