Signs Your Car Battery Is About to Die & What to Do
A dead car battery is one of the most common roadside emergencies, and it always seems to happen at the worst possible time—like when you’re rushing to work or stuck in a parking lot late at night. The good news? Your battery usually gives you warning signs before it dies completely. Knowing these signs can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your car running smoothly.
At Mr. Quickpick Roadside Assistance, we’re here to help you recognize when your battery is on its last legs and what you should do about it.
Signs Your Car Battery Is About to Die & What to Do
1. Slow Engine Crank
When you turn the key (or press the start button), does your engine take longer than usual to start? A slow or weak crank is one of the biggest red flags that your battery is losing power. If your car struggles to start, it’s time to get your battery checked before it fails completely.
2. Dim Headlights & Electrical Issues
Your car’s battery powers all the electrical components, including headlights, dashboard lights, power windows, and even your radio. If your headlights seem dimmer than usual or your interior lights flicker, your battery may not be holding a charge properly.
3. Warning Light on Your Dashboard
Most cars have a battery warning light (often shaped like a battery) that appears on the dashboard when there’s a charging issue. If you see this light, don’t ignore it! It could indicate a failing battery, a faulty alternator, or another electrical issue.
4. Strange Smell Coming from the Battery
If you notice a rotten egg smell under the hood, your battery might be leaking gas due to internal damage or overcharging. A leaking battery is dangerous and should be replaced immediately.
5. Corrosion or Swollen Battery Case
Pop the hood and take a look at your battery. If you see white, blue, or green corrosion on the terminals, it could mean your battery is aging or overcharging. Also, if the battery case looks bloated or swollen, extreme heat or overcharging could be causing internal damage—meaning replacement is necessary.
What to Do If Your Battery Is Dying
1. Try Jump-Starting Your Car
If your car won’t start, a jump-start can get it running again—at least temporarily. Here’s how to do it:
✅ Find jumper cables and a second car with a working battery.
✅ Connect the red cable to the dead battery’s positive terminal, then to the good battery’s positive terminal.
✅ Connect the black cable to the good battery’s negative terminal, then to an unpainted metal surface on the dead car (not directly to the battery).
✅ Start the working car and let it run for a few minutes before trying to start your car.
If your car starts after a jump, drive it for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery. If it dies again soon after, the battery likely needs to be replaced.
2. Call for Professional Roadside Assistance
If you don’t have jumper cables or you’re stuck in an unsafe location, don’t stress—Mr. Quickpick Roadside Assistance is just a phone call away! We offer fast, reliable battery jump-start services anywhere in Indianapolis and surrounding areas.
3. Get Your Battery Tested & Replaced
Most car batteries last 3-5 years, but factors like extreme weather, frequent short trips, and electrical issues can shorten their lifespan. If your battery is more than three years old, get it tested at an auto shop or replace it before it leaves you stranded.
Need a Jump-Start? Call Mr. Quickpick Roadside Assistance!
If you’re dealing with a dead battery in Indianapolis, don’t panic! Mr. Quickpick Roadside Assistance is available 24/7 to provide quick and affordable jump-start services to get you back on the road.
Don't wait for your battery to die completely—stay ahead of the problem and drive with confidence! 🚗🔋
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