A dead battery can occur out of the blue, necessitating a call to AAA. What can you do to ensure your car’s battery remains in good health over the summer? Our Heritage Toyota service center can inspect your battery and give it a charge if needed!
Signs of a Dying Battery
The battery will often give you hints that it may be on the verge of dying. Look out for these signs:
- The headlights or interior lights may appear dimmer. This is due to the lights not receiving ample power from the battery. You may notice the lights dim further when the car is idling.
- You may hear a clicking sound when turning the ignition. This is a sign that the engine is having trouble cranking.
- Electrical components like the radio, power windows, and power seats may respond more slowly.
If you notice any of these signs, then it’s time for a trip to our dealership’s service department for a battery check. You should also ask the technician to examine the battery if you have had it for five years or more.
How to Prolong Battery Life
- Minimize the use of all electronical components when the car is in idle.
- Go on longer trips. Short commutes don’t enable the battery to fully charge.
- Keep the terminals free of corrosion. Clean the terminals using a toothbrush and a mixture of water and baking soda
- Regularly inspect the connections on the battery to ensure they’re tight and secure. Connections can loosen when you drive over potholes or bumps.
Visit Heritage Toyota Catonsville to get your car battery checked. We perform inspections on all Toyota models, including the Toyota RAV4 and more. Be certain the battery is in prime health with our Heritage Toyota service center before embarking on a summer road trip!
