You have noticed lately that it’s difficult to get your SUV started. You’ve also noticed that the navigation system is acting strange. Both of these things are signs that the SUV’s battery is going bad. If your SUV is three to four years old and you have the original battery in it, this makes sense. Three to four years is the average lifespan of a car battery. Let’s talk more about the signs of a bad battery below.
Dashboard Warning
You may receive a warning from your SUV’s dashboard that is turned on by the engine control unit, the main computer chip. The specific warning will be a battery-shaped light. This light will turn on and remain illuminated until you replace the battery. Take this warning seriously.
Difficult Starts
The battery light will definitely turn on while you are trying to start your SUV. It may stay on throughout the starting process if the engine is cranking several times. If the battery has some juice left in it, the SUV will start. If the battery has discharged completely, the SUV won’t start.
Electrical Issues
We mentioned above that you may have electrical issues if the battery is going bad. Electrical components such as the navigation and entertainment systems, the power seats and windows, and the touchscreen can malfunction and slow down if there isn’t enough battery power sent to them.
Corroded Terminals
If you are having any of the problems discussed above, it’s an excellent idea to pop the hood and inspect the battery. If there is corrosion on the battery terminals and/or the cable connectors, your SUV’s battery is leaking. Unfortunately, the leaking battery must be replaced.
Rotten Egg Odors
If you can smell rotten eggs around the battery, it is leaking the sulfuric acid that is inside of it. This acid interacts with lead cells to generate a chemical reaction that produces electricity. Unfortunately, if the battery is leaking acid, it cannot be repaired. You need a new battery.
Bubbling Case
You also need a new battery if the battery case is bubbling. This is a sign that there is an issue with the chemical reaction inside the battery. The case may also crack when it gets too old or warp. Any strange thing that you notice on the battery case should be looked into.
We can do that here at our shop, so call us today to schedule a service appointment. Again, if the battery is over three years old, it could be going bad.
