With the winter driving season approaching, many drivers might be wondering if the battery in their vehicle will continue to provide them with reliable service or leave them stranded on a cold, snowy night. Although there is no sure fire way to predict when a battery will ultimately fail, there are some steps that can be taken to help ensure reliable service.
The first step is a simple visual inspection of the battery to make sure the terminal connections are clean and free of corrosion and that there are no signs of damage or leaks. It is also important to ensure that the battery tray is free of debris and the battery hold-down is secure.
The second step is an inspection of the vehicle's electrical system. The following items should be checked:
- Determine the battery's state of charge and state of health by testing the battery with a conductance-type tester or subjecting it to a physical load test.
- Check the output of the alternator. Proper output is necessary to operate the vehicle's electrical demands and to maintain the battery's charge.
- Check the cranking motor for proper operation and electrical draw.
- Check all cables within the electrical system for excessive voltage drops.
- Determine if the battery is properly sized (Cold Cranking Amps and Reserve Capacity) for the vehicle.
Source: ACDelco