Feb 2, 2024
A car battery being checked in Redwood City, CA

Every vehicle relies on its battery to crank the engine and power essential electrical components. However, after several years of use, even high-quality car batteries will start showing their age. Here are 7 signs it may be time for a new car battery from your local INFINITI dealer.

1. Dimming Lights and Dashboard

Over time, the battery voltage starts dropping below the optimal levels needed to run modern vehicles. You may find interior and dashboard lights look duller than before. Digital displays may also flicker or restart unexpectedly as the voltage fluctuates. Electrical components are designed for a specific power range, so operating below minimums could damage electronics.

2. Warning Lights and Service Indicators

Newer INFINITI models have intricate monitoring systems that detect problems before they escalate. Battery and charging system warning lights are good indicators that something needs repair. Alternatively, you may notice malfunctions in other modules, such as active safety features or infotainment systems. A low-voltage battery affects them all.

3. Strange Electrical Malfunctions

Weak batteries struggle to meet peak power demands consistently. This causes baffling glitches, such as wonky power window/lock switches or radio resets. Some owners experience intermittent starting refusals too. These symptoms point to deeper voltage regulation issues within the electrical system.

4. Starter Abnormalities

Low charge puts strain on starter motors when cranking the engine. You could hear grinding, clicking, or other unusual sounds that suggest the solenoid is underpowered. Prolonged troubles like these risk overheating and breaking the starter permanently. Early replacement prevents costly repair bills down the line.

5. Poor Cold Weather Performance  

Frigid conditions especially challenge batteries since starting draws higher amperage than usual. If your INFINITI struggles to turn over on winter mornings or needs much longer cranking intervals, its battery may not be up to the job anymore. Cold-weather reliability is a crucial factor to consider for vehicles used year-round.

6. Decreasing Life Between Charges

Over time, the battery’s ability to hold a charge decreases, resulting in shorter intervals between starts before requiring recharging. When there is a sudden or dramatic drop-off, it indicates that the internal plates are corroding faster than normal due to age. Replacement is recommended before complete failure occurs.

7. Physical Damage Symptoms

Keep an eye out for telltale signs of battery corrosion, like crusty white or green deposits on terminals. Swelling of the case can also indicate a shorted internal cell. Leaks and cracks spell the end of a battery’s usable service life due to acid electrolyte seepage and impending electrical shorts. Neither are safe to ignore.

Rather than ignoring subtle signs, take proactive steps to ensure your INFINITI remains in dependable condition. Visit us today at Redwood City INFINITI in Redwood City, CA, and our battery experts can assess your vehicle’s battery and install a high-quality replacement if needed.