When’s the last time you had your battery tested? This is an important Chrysler service task that should be done on a yearly basis. Batteries don’t last forever – only about five years, in fact – so you should always have an idea how much charge it has left. But aside from age, there are other signs that you need your battery to be service or replaced:
The Engine Takes a While to Start or Doesn’t Start at All
If nothing happens when you turn the key, the battery is probably dead. But if you have to keep turning the key to get the engine started, it’s on its way out. A clicking sound indicates that it is very low on power.
The Lights are Dim
When you turn on your headlights, do they seem less bright than usual? Are the lights in the cabin also dim or perhaps flickering? These are also signs that your battery may be failing.
You Smell Something Fishy
Or, more specifically, something that smells like rotten eggs. This is the odor a leaking battery can give off.
The Case is Swollen or the Terminal is Corroded.
Take a look under your hood. If your battery’s case seems to be bulging, something is clearly wrong with it. And if you see what looks like a bluish-green powder on the terminals, this indicates that acid is leaking from the connectors.
Because you won’t be going anywhere without a working battery, you definitely don’t want to ignore these warning signs. If your battery needs some service or you suspect that a replacement is in order, just get in touch with the service center at Schmit Bros. Chrysler Dodge Jeep® RAM in Saukville.