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Blue Seal Spotlight March 2003

Forest Hill Auto 1123 Forest Ave. Pacific Grove, CA 93950 (831) 372-6575

NOTE: The following tips are provided by the featured shop and are not to be considered as technical information from ASE. ASE makes no warranty as to the applicability, accuracy, or reliability of this information. Always consult the owner's manual published by your car's manufacturer for specific information on service and intervals.

Does A Dead Battery = Bad Battery?

A dead battery can sure be aggravating, but the aggravation can be minimal if the cause of the dead battery is found right away. In other words, a dead battery may be a symptom, rather than the problem. Sure, batteries can fail and eventually need replacing (Battery Council International recommends replacing a battery if it is three years old or more), but what exactly can cause a dead battery? It all depends, but there are several possibilities. The charging system (alternator and voltage regulator) may be at fault, where it isn't generating enough voltage or current to support electrical loads and recharge the battery. A simpler, related problem is a slipping drive belt, which can cause low alternator output. Another possibility is a key-off current drain, where accessory loads or electronic accessories are drawing more than their normal amount of current while the car is parked with the engine and accessories off.

Like technology itself, diagnosing today's electrical systems has become increasingly sophisticated. Many alternators are now computer-controlled through the car's powertrain control module and require increasingly high-tech equipment and training to get to the heart of the problem. That's why you will want an ASE-certified technician to perform a thorough check of the battery, charging, and starting system to find the root cause of the dead battery.

While we're on the subject of batteries, here are some things for you or your technician to check to keep your battery charged and to ensure long life:

• The battery case and connections should be clean and tight. The battery should be cleaned periodically with baking soda and water.
• The battery should be mounted securely as excessive vibration can cause internal damage.
• Avoid repeated discharging and charging of the battery. This is known as deep cycling and dramatically shortens battery life. Most automotive batteries live longest when they are kept charged through normal use.
• If your car's battery becomes deeply discharged by leaving lights or accessories on, recharge with a battery charger first before driving. Do not charge a deeply discharged battery by driving and charging it with the alternator. Damage to the alternator may result.

As you can see, there's more to a dead battery than just the battery itself. That's why your ASE-certified technician and repair facility are there to help.

Shop Profile
Forest Hill Auto Service, recognized by the ASE Blue Seal of Excellence Program since 1999, is owned and operated by Robert Constant. As a family-owned and operated business since 1963, Forest Hill Auto prides itself on providing customers with quality service and parts. The team at Forest Hill Auto Service firmly believes in quality automotive repair and good customer service. The staff works hard to get its customers' vehicles back to them - fixed correctly, the first time around, and in a timely manner. Pets are encouraged to share the waiting room. The resident Malamute, Wan Ko, makes a guest appearance now and then. For more information, visit the Forest Hill Auto Service website at www.foresthillauto.com.