While many components work in synergy to keep your car operational, the battery is arguably the most important. From the air conditioning system to the headlights, windows, radio and interior lights, the battery powers them all. Ensuring that the battery remains in good shape and promptly resolving issues when they arise can be a goldmine in the long run. Consider inspecting your battery when the battery warning light is on in your car, in form of a picture of a battery or simply lettered “battery,” comes on.
Faulty or failed alternator: In most cases, you may not have to worry about the battery itself when the battery indicator light turns on. Many times, it’s simply a fault with a system responsible for charging the battery – the alternator. The alternator takes power generated from the crankshaft of the vehicle, converts it into electrical energy, and transfers it to the battery. Thus, if the alternator falls short of the required voltage, the battery light may come on. And when the alternator goes completely bad, the battery will be entirely relied on for electrical energy. The vehicle may ultimately stop working as electrical energy is needed for the spark plugs to work.
Faulty voltage regulator: Attached to the alternator, the voltage regulator, as its name implies, ensures that the alternator outputs put the required amount of voltage to the battery. It also increases this voltage should the need arise. In the event that the voltage regulator goes faulty, the alternator will not be able to output the right voltage needed to power the electrical system in your car.
Worn-out serpentine belt: This part drives the alternator and many other peripheral devices. The serpentine belt may become damaged over time, leaving the alternator literally inoperable.
Corroded battery terminals or cables: Problems with the alternator are often responsible for causing the battery light to come on, however, it’s is not uncommon to have the battery terminals and cables responsible trigger the warning light too. In the long run, the battery terminals or cables may corrode and limit its ability to power the electrical unit in your car.
A professional mechanic should be hired to carry out the inspection. For this service, the battery light problem will be established using tools like an amp meter, voltmeter, and load tester to determine whether the battery or alternator is the underlying cause. Likely triggers are easily accessible, so an expert mechanic will be able to identify the fault in your car’s electrical system and provide a detailed report including the extent of damage an scope of repairs that need to be done.
Keeping your car operational is majorly dependent on the battery’s health. If the battery light comes on, chances are that your car won’t start or be useful for any trip without halting abruptly. Consider a professional mechanic to inspect and provide the best assistance you need when the battery light comes on dashboard. Our expert mechanics are always ready to help. So book an inspection service with one today if the battery light is on in your car