Nov 3, 2023
A Lincoln technician handling a car battery

Image via Bob Maxey Lincoln.

If you’ve ever been in a situation where your car battery died and left you stranded, you know how frustrating and inconvenient it can be. To avoid finding yourself in this predicament, it’s essential to be aware of the warning signs that indicate your car battery is on its last legs. These tips from your Lincoln dealer will help you determine whether or not you need a new car battery.

The Engine Is Slow to Turn On

One of the primary signs of a dying car battery is when your engine takes longer than usual to start. When you turn the key, the battery provides energy to the start and ignition system, which then turns a flywheel to start the engine. If your battery is weak or dying, it may struggle to provide enough power to turn the engine over promptly.

If you notice that your engine takes a few seconds to start, it’s a clear indication that your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan. It’s crucial to address this issue promptly to avoid being stranded with a dead battery.

Dashboard Lights Flicker

Your car battery not only powers the engine but also supplies energy to other electrical components, including the dashboard lights. If you notice that your dashboard lights are flickering, it is likely a sign of a dying battery. The flickering lights indicate that the battery is struggling to provide a consistent power supply to the electrical system.

When you observe this symptom, it’s essential to purchase a new battery as soon as possible. Ignoring the issue can lead to a completely dead battery, leaving you in need of a jump start. However, it’s worth noting that dimmed dashboard lights can also be caused by other factors, such as a faulty light dimmer or alternator issues.

Slow Window Roll-Up or Roll-Down

Another subtle sign that your car battery is on its way out is when your power windows roll up or down slowly. While slow window operation can be caused by other factors, such as a faulty motor or track guides, it is often indicative of a weak battery. When the battery lacks sufficient power, it may struggle to operate the electric window motors smoothly.

If you notice that your windows are unusually slow to roll up or down, especially in conjunction with other signs on this list, it’s advisable to replace your battery. However, if the slow window operation is the only symptom you’re experiencing, it may be worth investigating other potential causes before replacing the battery.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, stop by Bob Maxey Lincoln and let our friendly staff assess what is needed to fix the issue.