At the heart of your vehicle's electrical system lies the battery. A dying battery means the electrical components in your car like power windows, lights, and even power steering assistance are at risk of losing power. Recognizing the signs of a dying car battery and knowing when to get it replaced are things all drivers should be aware of.

Read common questions car owners have regarding their car batteries and view our responses below.

LET GRANITE AUTOMOTIVE OF RAPID CITY REPLACE YOUR CAR BATTERY

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My battery warning light came on — should I be worried?

The battery warning light on your dashboard is actually indicating that a component of the car charging system is not working properly. There are quite a few electronic components that affect the charging system so this indicator may not have to do with your car's battery at all.

Okay, but the charging system does charge my battery, right?

Correct, the charging system does directly affects the battery. With that being said, the battery warning light is a sign that your vehicle is in need of immediate maintenance.

When does a car battery need to be changed?

It's impossible to know exactly when your car battery will run out of juice so it's important to err on the side of caution. If you notice any signs of a dying battery, it's best to act sooner rather than later.

There are many factors that affect your battery's lifespan, and they can last anywhere between 3 and 6 years. However, to reduce risk, it is recommended you change your battery every 4 years.

Are car battery chargers good?

Including a battery charger in your vehicle's emergency pack is smart. Using a battery charger continuously to avoid changing your battery is not. Battery charging tools are great for a quick jolt of energy, but having to constantly jump your car means you need a new battery.

Always read the directions that come with your battery charging tool before using it. They can be dangerous when used incorrectly.

What drains car batteries?

Here are a few common causes of battery drain in your vehicle:

• User error — Something as simple as leaving a light on or failing to close a door completely can drain your battery.
• Parasitic drain — Certain components of your car can drain its battery even when the vehicle is turned off, much like apps that run in the background of your phone.
• Bad charging system — The same charging system we talked about previously can be the root cause of your battery draining.

How can I tell when my car battery might be dying?

If you experience any of the following, it may be time to have your car battery looked at:

•  Engine starts slowly
•  Power windows, windshield wipers, etc. do not function properly
•  The battery warning light is illuminated on the dashboard
•  It's been 3 or more years since you last changed the battery

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If you're experiencing signs of a dying car battery, bring your vehicle into our service department today. Schedule a service appointment online or browse our service specials before coming in. Our expert technicians provide top quality car maintenance and quick turnaround time. Granite Automotive is your go-to dealership for all your Nissan, Buick, and GMC service needs.