Feb 2, 2024
A Mitsubishi battery test in San Jose, CA

Your battery provides the power to start your car and run your vehicle’s electrical components, but it can’t last forever. Recognizing the signs that it’s time to get a new car battery from your Mitsubishi dealer can prevent you from being stranded.

1. Dashboard Warning Light

Most modern vehicles come with a battery warning light on the dashboard. If there’s a problem with your charging system, it should light up. Although this light doesn’t specify that the issue is with the battery itself, it’s a good indication that you should have it checked.

2. Slow Engine Crank

When you turn the key in the ignition, if your engine turns over more slowly than usual or seems to labor to start, this can be a sign that your battery is losing its charge. A healthy battery should start the engine almost immediately. If you notice sluggishness when starting your car, it’s time to have your battery assessed.

3. Trouble Starting Your Car

If your car won’t start on the first attempt, but eventually turns on after a few tries, it could point to a battery nearing the end of its life. This symptom can be more pronounced in colder weather, which further reduces a battery’s efficiency.

4. Frequent Jump Starts

If you’ve progressed from trouble starting your car to needing the occasional jump-start to get going, it’s a clear sign that your battery is no longer holding a charge. While occasional jump-starts after leaving an electrical component on may not mean that your battery needs to be replaced, if it happens regularly, you may need a new one.

5. Dim Headlights or Electrical Issues

The battery powers all of your car’s electrical components, from headlights to the infotainment system. If you notice that your headlights are dimmer than usual, especially at startup, or if other electrical components are underperforming, your battery may not be working at its best either.

6. Swollen Battery Case

Extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on batteries. If your battery case appears swollen or bloated, this is a sign that it has been damaged internally. Batteries in this condition can be hazardous, so you should replace them right away.

7. Corrosion on the Battery

Noticeable corrosion on the battery terminals can lead to voltage issues and trouble starting your car. While cleaning the terminals can improve things, significant corrosion is often a sign that your battery is failing.

8. Your Battery Is Old

Car batteries only last about three to five years. If your Mitsubishi’s battery is in this age range, it’s wise to have it tested and consider replacing it to avoid unexpected failure.

Visit Your Mitsubishi Dealer for a Battery Inspection

If you’ve noticed any of these signs of battery trouble, your next step should be a trip to the dealership. We can inspect your battery to see if it’s time to replace it. If you do need a fresh battery, our certified technicians can help you select the right one for your vehicle and professionally install it.

Stay proactive about your car’s battery to enjoy uninterrupted drives. Visit San Jose Mitsubishi in San Jose, CA, to have your battery inspected today.