Between the heater, the lights, and all the other things that use your car’s battery, winter puts a serious strain on your vehicle’s battery. Over time, your car’s battery loses power, which could cause a problem if it dies, leaving you stranded. It’s a good idea to check your battery every six months, with most experts saying checking every April and November is a good way to keep track. Just in case if you haven’t checked yet, here are three ways to tell if your battery needs a replacement.
 

1. Battery Lifespan

There’s a lot of debating between experts, but the typical lifespan of a brand-new battery is anywhere between three to five years. Most batteries are stamped with a production date for you to track its age.

There isn’t a set mileage or time to replace your battery, because they wear out differently, based on a number of factors, including car use, quality, and weather conditions. If your car sits for a long period, it may lose a charge faster than a car that is driven every day. Making sure to check your battery before a change in season, as the change in weather could cause battery failure.

2. Car Battery Quality

A longer warranty on a battery can often indicate a battery’s longevity. A better warranty is usually attached to a more expensive battery, with extra power. For example, a battery with 600 cold-cranking amps will probably have a three-year warranty rather than a one or two year warranty.

You can also inspect for acid leakage, corrosion on the terminals, or test your battery to get a sense of your battery’s longevity.

3. Warning Signs

There are a few telltale signs of a failing battery, including slow engine crank, issues with electrical components, or if the dashboard warning light shows up! If any of these are happening to your vehicle, you need to immediately get a new battery!

Making sure your battery is in the best condition will keep you and your vehicle safe for a long time. If you have battery problems or want to get it tested, bring your car into Sam’s Auto Service, we can take care of any problems that your vehicle might have before the snow starts falling! We’re conveniently located in the heart of Warminster, PA for all your auto repair needs! Visit us at 228 E Street Rd Warminster, PA 18974 or give us a call at (215) 675-9462!

Recognizing problems with your car before they become a larger issue is the key to cost-efficient auto maintenance. Brakes are one of the most critical safety components of your vehicle - they keep it stopped, and can stop it at any time! Being able to identify problems with the brakes can help you avoid a breakdown or worse! You don’t really need to know the physics of how brakes operate to identify these four red flags that you need brake service or repair.

Screeching, Grinding, or Squeaking

Unnerving noises point to a problem with the brake pads or shoes. Much like a tire tread, brake pads wear down over time. Worn-out pads cause damage to other brake parts, which leads to a larger problem and costly repairs.

Vibration While Braking

If you notice pulsing or vibrating sensation through your foot on the brake pedal, or feel it through the steering wheel, the cause could be worn brakes, come to Sam’s Auto Service!

Squishy, Less Effective Brake Pedal

Does it take extra effort to push the pedal? Does your car take longer to stop, or needing to take a longer distance to brake? You could be driving a dangerous vehicle because your pads are definitely worn. Call us immediately to schedule an appointment!

“Pulling”

While braking, if your car ‘pulls’ from one side to the other, then there’s probably an issue with the brakes. You made need some adjustments and some more brake fluid.

Making sure your brakes are in the best condition will keep you and your vehicle safe for a long time. If you have brake problems, or just need a tune-up, bring your car into Sam’s Auto Service, we can take care of any problems that your vehicle might have before the snow starts falling! We’re conveniently located in the heart of Warminster, PA for all your auto repair needs! Visit us at 228 E Street Rd Warminster, PA 18974 or give us a call at (215) 675-9462!

Winter can be a very dangerous time of year, so don’t forget to drive safely!