Your fleet vehicle’s battery is an essential part of its operation, so it pays to know when you need a new one. Replacing your battery regularly can prevent serious long-term problems with your fleet vehicle’s electrical system and help maintain its performance. The problem is that modern batteries are built to last for years, leaving many motorists unsure of when exactly they should be replaced – or if their existing battery needs replacing at all. Here, we’ll discuss the signs that can help you determine whether it’s time to get a new vehicle battery before potential harm comes to your ride.
Your Battery Is Swollen, Cracked, or Corroded
The battery is generally the first thing that people check when they suspect it needs replacing. If the battery looks swollen, cracked, or corroded, it’s probably time to invest in a new one. The battery posts (the terminal components) are particularly important to inspect as corrosion on them can prevent electricity from flowing properly through your vehicle’s electrical system.
The Check Engine Light Comes On
The check engine light is a general indicator that something is wrong with your fleet vehicle. If the battery is dying, it can trigger the check engine light to come on – especially when you’re trying to start your engine. In this case, have your battery tested and consider battery replacement if the results are inconclusive or not satisfactory.
The Battery’s Age Exceeds Its Recommended Lifespan
Modern fleet vehicle batteries typically last three to five years before needing replacement. If your battery has outlived its recommended lifespan, then battery replacement is a must. To date your battery’s age, look for the battery manufacturing code on the battery itself – usually located on one of the poles. The first two digits indicate when it was made (year and month).
It Takes Several Attempts to Start Your Vehicle
If it takes several attempts to start your fleet vehicle, the battery could be the problem. If your battery isn’t providing enough energy to get your engine going, then you may experience sluggish starting or prolonged cranking of the starter motor. This could be an indication that your battery has reached its end of life and needs replacing. Similarly, if you notice lights dimming while you’re trying to start your fleet vehicle, this could also suggest a failing battery.
A weak battery can still start your fleet vehicle but will struggle when running multiple systems, such as lights, wipers, and air conditioning at the same time. However, if your battery is completely dead, most likely, you will not be able to start the fleet vehicle at all, and battery replacement would be necessary.
Get a Battery Replacement in Great Falls, MT
It’s important that you keep an eye out for these signs of battery failure so you can replace it before it causes serious issues with your vehicle’s electrical system. A battery replacement should be done as soon as possible if any of the above symptoms are present in order to prevent long-term damage or costly repairs down the line. Remember: a battery only lasts so long, and taking fleet vehiclee of it now will save you hassle in the future.
Fleet Truck & RV Repair is here to help you with battery replacement in Great Falls, MT, as well as any other electrical system repairs for your vehicle. Our experienced technicians can get the job done quickly and efficiently so you can hit the road again without any worries. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an inspection with one of our auto repair experts.