A car’s battery plays a vital role in starting the engine and powering essential electronics. As batteries age, their ability to hold a charge diminishes over time, which can negatively impact your vehicle’s performance and reliability. If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time for a new car battery from your local Mazda dealer.
1. Slow Cranking
One of the early signs of a weak battery is the engine taking longer than normal to turn over when starting. A good battery should crank the engine swiftly. Slow cranking means it’s not supplying optimum power to the starter motor.
2. Dim Lights
Over time, headlights, taillights, and dash lights may seem dimmer than before when switched on. This can indicate the battery is struggling to provide full voltage and brightness to lighting systems.
3. Strange Electrical Problems
Beyond lighting issues, wavering power to other parts like the radio, windows, and mirrors may point to an aging battery that isn’t maintaining stable current flow. Intermittent glitches could worsen and cause increasingly unpredictable problems on the road.
4. Shorter Than Normal Start Times
Over multiple years, batteries steadily lose the capacity to hold a charge. You’ll likely find your Mazda needs longer cranking periods each time before turning over. This is a sign the battery isn’t storing enough reserve power for easy, reliable starting.
5. Battery Over 3 Years Old
The typical lifespan of an automotive battery is 3-5 years. Even if there are no noticeable issues, after 3 years, its ability to perform is often compromised. Rather than risking sudden failure, consider proactively replacing batteries this old or older.
6. White/Green Deposits on Terminals
Corrosion buildup at battery terminals in the form of white or green deposits indicates acid leaks from the battery that is in the process of failing. Corrosion prevents a good connection and power transfer, which can cause start issues.
7. Cold Weather Sensitivity
Cold temperatures place extra demands on batteries and make underlying issues worse. If your Mazda has a hard time starting in winter, even with the proper maintenance, like testing and charging, the battery may have reached the end of its service life.
8. Professional Diagnosis
The best way to confirm if your battery truly needs replacing is through a load test by an expert. Your local Mazda dealer can accurately diagnose battery health and install a new, high-quality replacement if required.
9. Battery is Leaking Fluid
If battery overflow components are corroded or fluid is leaking from cracks, it’s reached the end of its life expectancy and needs to be replaced.
Don’t wait until your battery has totally died to consider a replacement. Visit us today at Bommarito Mazda West County in Ellisville, MO, for an expert battery evaluation and an affordable new battery if needed. We promise professional service for all your Mazda battery needs.
Connect with us
Recent Blog Entries
Categories
