Have you ever found yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere with a dead car battery? It’s not only frustrating but also dangerous, especially if you’re alone. But how do you know for sure if your car trouble is stemming from a dead car battery or if there’s something else going on with your vehicle? Here are three surefire ways to spot a dead battery.
The car isn’t starting
One of the most obvious signs that your car battery is dead is when you turn on the ignition and nothing happens. No cranking sound, no lights coming on – just complete silence. While this could be an indicator of a bigger problem, jumpstarting or replacing the car battery will usually get your motor running again.
Dim, flickering lights—or no lights at all
Another way to tell if you have a dead car battery is by checking your headlights or interior lights. Because the battery powers these lights, not having them come on as usual is a sure sign that it needs to be replaced. If your lights are dim or flickering, it could still be a sign that your battery needs to be replaced or recharged, so be sure to get it checked without delay.
Sad-sounding or nonexistent car horn
If you think your car battery is on its way out, try honking your horn. If it sounds weak or doesn’t work at all, then chances are high that your car’s power source has died out completely.
Keep an eye out for these additional warning signs
If you’re experiencing issues with your car like slow engine crank, dashboard warning indicators lighting up unexpectedly, and difficulty starting up after long periods of time, these could all indicate underlying issues with a dying car battery. Be sure to contact someone who specializes in car battery delivery and installation before you end up with a dead battery ruining your day.
The takeaway
A dead battery doesn’t have to come as a total surprise. By keeping an eye out for these red flags, you can avoid the hassle and expense that can come with having your car battery quit on you unexpectedly.