How can I tell if the battery needs replacing?
A weak battery can lead to problems starting the vehicle, particularly in winter. It is therefore advisable to check the condition of your vehicle’s battery before the first frosts set in and, if necessary, have it replaced promptly. It is important to bear in mind that in new-generation vehicles fitted with a system hitchhiking Batteries wear out more quickly, and you may be in for an unpleasant surprise even with a relatively new car. How do you check the condition of a battery?
Battery check: Do I need to take it to a service centre?
Many drivers wonder whether checking the condition of their battery requires a visit to a car service centre or garage. There’s nothing to stop you having your battery checked by a qualified mechanic, although the process is simple enough that you can easily do it yourself.
To check the condition of the battery, you’ll need a tester. This simple, easy-to-use device can be bought in most good supermarkets in the car accessories section, or ordered online. Armed Once the meter is in place, we can get started.
Battery voltage
The first parameter we check when assessing the battery’s state of wear is the voltage. The battery voltage should be between 12.6 and 12.8 V. If the voltage is lower than this during the measurement, the battery needs to be recharged. If, after recharging, the battery’s voltage is lower than 12 V, this may indicate a fault or defect. To confirm the diagnosis, you should visit a specialist battery shop.
Stress test
It is essential to carry out the load test on a fully charged battery; otherwise, the result will not be reliable. To carry out the test, connect the multimeter so that you can see its readings. Then try to start the car. If the voltage does not drop below 10 V and the car starts with some difficulty, this is a sign that the battery needs replacing. If the voltage does not drop below 10 V and the car starts without any difficulty, the charging and current draw should be checked. It may well be that the battery is fully functional but is being systematically undercharged or discharged, for example by a GPS or another device we use on a daily basis.