Thornton Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Nov 24, 2023

When you have battery issues, a jump start is only a temporary fix. Recurring battery problems can be an issue on the road, especially if you are traveling or commuting. If you need a new car battery, you should schedule service at your RAM dealer. 

In general, your car battery should last for three to four years. Sometimes, factors such as your driving habits or manufacturer defects mean your battery dies sooner than expected. You can easily get a new battery for your car from your dealership. A new battery from your dealership will come from the original equipment manufacturer, which means the battery quality, fit, and performance will be ideal for your make and model. 

 

Signs You Need a New Battery

A car that won’t start is the most obvious symptom of a dead battery, but there are several other signs that may occur weeks or months before your battery finally fails. One early warning sign that your battery is struggling is issues with the electrical components of your vehicle. If you notice flickering headlights, dim headlights while idling, trouble with power windows, or flickering lights on your dashboard, then your battery might not have enough juice to reliably power your vehicle. 

 

You might also notice that your engine is slow to start. If it feels like you have to twist the key in your ignition longer than usual or if you have to try starting your car more than once, your battery is likely the issue. Sometimes, a slow start can also be caused by wiring issues, old spark plugs, or a worn-out ignition coil. 

 

Check Under the Hood

Drivers who like to do DIY oil changes may notice visible signs of a dying battery under the hood. A battery that is near the end of its lifespan might release corrosive chemicals that accumulate as white or blue powder on the top of the battery. Although a small amount of visible corrosion can be normal, excessive corrosion is a sign that your battery has a serious issue. 
 

Other Services at Your RAM Dealer

In addition to replacing your car battery, your dealership service department can perform other essential maintenance tasks for your vehicle. Important preventative maintenance tasks to schedule frequently include brake pad replacement, tire rotation, and oil changes. In general, your dealership service department is the best place to go for routine maintenance because dealership mechanics are trained to service your specific vehicle and repairs will always be completed with OEM parts. 
 
Although your car battery can last for several years, you may need a replacement if you start encountering problems with your ignition or lighting issues. Book your next battery service appointment at Thornton Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.