Being about to hit the road in a car only to find it won’t start is frustrating beyond measure. The engine refuses to start and the light from the headlights becomes weak, so we understand that the vehicle’s battery is discharged. What could be the causes? This is what we will discover together in this article.
There are several probable factors that can quickly drain your battery and cause it to run out of power.. It is advisable to be aware of this to prevent the problem. Explanation below!
Car battery. source: spm
Why do car batteries drain quickly?
The battery is essential for starting and correct operation of the vehicle. However, with regular driving, it will likely download quickly. But before thinking about replacing it, it is important to know the causes that could have caused this problem.
Also read: Why do drivers put a CD on the windshield of the car?
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Forgetting the headlights and other interior lights can drain the battery
Car headlights on. source: spm
Some oversights are quite common among motorists who, mechanically, park their car leaving the headlights and interior lights on or not closing the trunk properly. Result, the battery is discharged and therefore, the next morning, it is normal that the car then refuses to start. Some modern vehicles are equipped with systems that nevertheless warn of this type of carelessness, particularly that of the headlights.
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Parasitic drain can drain your battery
First of all, it should be noted that certain elements such as the clock, security alarms or radio settings are continuously powered by the battery. This drainage is normal. since these are components that always remain active. However, battery drain can also be caused by issues like improper installation or faulty wiring and fuses.. If this is the case, then we are talking about parasitic drainage even after stopping the vehicle.
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A faulty charging system can cause the battery to drain
Damaged car. source: spm
A faulty charging system can cause the battery to discharge while driving. Also, you should know that in some cars their systems and headlights are powered by an alternator and that if the latter experiences a deficiency, the battery will be further drained. Indeed, the alternator could have a malfunction due to wear of the tensioners or loosening of the belts.
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A faulty alternator can drain the battery
The alternator is the mechanism that recharges the vehicle’s battery and provides electrical energy to operate accessories such as automatic windows, air conditioning or radio, etc. Therefore, if a diode in the alternator is faulty or damaged, this can cause the circuit to charge even when the engine is stopped.
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Extreme temperatures can affect the car battery
Traffic in very hot weather. source: spm
The battery may have accumulated lead sulfate crystals due to high or low temperatures. Its durability is affected if the vehicle is left in such conditions for a long period of time. Also, it is likely that the battery will take much longer to charge. if the car does not regularly drive long distances.
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The battery can be discharged if its cables are damaged, corroded or loose
Your car battery will not be able to charge if its connections are worn. To solve this problem, you should use a toothbrush or rag to clean them. Adding to the wear and tear, these wires can be loose, which can make it quite difficult to start the engine, as the transfer of electrical current will be inefficient.
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Short trips are enemies of batteries
Car ride. source: spm
The battery is likely to wear out if the car rarely makes long trips or only takes short trips on a regular basis. Since it essentially powers the motor during cranking, it can present a charge-discharge problem. if the vehicle stops before it is fully charged.
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The car battery is simply old or spent
A battery is not capable of guaranteeing a full charge if it is too old, faulty or weak. In addition to the need for regular maintenance, it must be replaced every 3-4 years.
Also read: Why and when should car mats be changed? Nobody knows, but you risk your life every day.
Also, find out the signs that your vehicle is soon to break down.
Knowing these different factors allows you to take better action to avoid unpleasant surprises when starting your vehicle.
Also read: The Secret Car Pedal – Drivers Often Don’t Know Their Car Is Equipped With This Nifty Option
