Why Does My Car Battery Keep Going Dead? What Can I Do About It?
August is National Wellness Month. And while we’re totally all-in here in Camp Hill, it seems as if your car battery just isn’t. Because it’s gone dead. AGAIN! And you’re wondering what the heck is going on. If your car battery keeps going dead, then you know what a frustrating issue it is. Because it leaves you stranded at the most inconvenient and unexpected times. So, in this blog, the experts at Meineke in Camp Hill looks at some common reasons why this happens and what you can do to prevent it.
1. The Dreaded Parasitic Drain
Even when your car is off, certain components like the clock, radio, or alarm system draw a small amount of power from the battery. However, if something like a glove box light or trunk light stays on, it can cause a parasitic drain that slowly kills your battery. So, to prevent this, check for lights or electronics that might be staying on when your car is off. And if you can’t find the source, the ASE certified mechanics at Meineke in Camp Hill can help you identify the drain.
2. Old Battery
Car batteries typically last about three to five years. So if your battery is older than that, it might be on its last legs. And an aging battery won’t hold a charge as well as a new one, making it more prone to dying. So, if your battery is old, replacing it is the best solution.
3. Faulty Alternator
Your alternator charges your battery while the engine is running. Yet, if the alternator isn’t working properly, it won’t keep the battery charged, which can cause the battery to die repeatedly. Signs of a faulty alternator include dimming headlights or a dashboard warning light. So, if you suspect your alternator is the culprit, have it checked and replaced if necessary at Meineke in Camp Hill.
4. Extreme Temperatures
Both hot and cold weather can affect your battery’s performance; extreme heat can cause the battery fluid to evaporate, while freezing temperatures can slow down the chemical reactions inside the battery. And both of these make it harder to start your car. So, parking in a garage or shaded area and using a battery blanket in cold weather can help protect your battery from extreme temperatures.
5. Short Drives
If you only drive short distances, your battery might not have enough time to fully recharge between starts. And this can eventually drain it. So, try to take longer drives occasionally to allow your alternator to recharge the battery fully. And if you have to take short trips often, consider using a battery charger to keep it topped off.
What Can You Do About It?
- Regular Maintenance: Regular automotive maintenance can often be your best friend. So, have your battery, alternator, and electrical system checked regularly by the experts at Meineke in Camp Hill, especially if your battery keeps dying.
- Turn Off Electronics: Make sure all lights, radios, and other electronics are off when you turn off your car.
- Keep the Terminals Clean: Corroded battery terminals can prevent your battery from charging properly. So, clean them regularly to ensure a good connection.
The Battery Experts at Meineke Can Help You Figure Out Why Your Battery Keeps Dying Unexpectedly
By understanding the common reasons for a dead car battery and taking steps to address them, you can avoid the hassle of dealing with a car that won’t start. But, if your battery continues to die despite your best efforts, it’s time to consult the professional at Meineke in Camp Hill to diagnose and fix the problem.
If the Meineke in Camp Hill is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 14 car repair centers is South Central Pennsylvania:
- Meineke Car Care Center – Pleasant View Road
331 Pleasant View Rd, New Cumberland, PA 17070 - Meineke Car Care Center – Rodney Road
1775 Rodney Road, York, PA 17408 - Meineke Car Care Center – South Queen Street
855 South Queen Street, York, PA 17403 - Meineke Car Care Center – Market Street
2301 E Market Street, York, PA 17402 - Meineke Car Care Center – 2nd Street
201 N. 2nd Street, New Freedom, PA 17349 - Meineke Car Care Center – Baltimore Street
871 Baltimore Street, Hanover, PA 17331 - Meineke Car Care Center – Carlisle Street
1125 Carlisle Street, Hanover, PA 17331 - Meineke Car Care Center – Carlisle Pike
6510 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 - Meineke Car Care Center – East Chocolate Ave
1401 East Chocolate Avenue, Hershey, PA 17033 - Meineke Car Care Center – Gettysburg Road
2236 Gettysburg Rd, Camp Hill, PA 17011 - Meineke Car Care Center – Jonestown Road
4509 Jonestown Road, Harrisburg, PA 17109 - Meineke Car Care Center – Paxton Street
3098 Paxton Street, Harrisburg, PA 17111 - Meineke Car Care Center – Manheim Pike
1220 Manheim Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601 - Meineke Car Care Center – Main Street
5988 Main Street, East Petersburg, PA 17520
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