Battery Diagnostics And Replacements For Vehicles

Nothing puts a damper on your day like a dead car battery. You might not always think about the battery in your car, but if you are having trouble starting up your vehicle, it might be an issue with the battery. If you have noticed symptoms like dim headlights, flickering interior lights, uncommon or prolonged radio interference, or hesitant ignition, you could be dealing with a battery problem. Don't worry, it's a simple thing to fix and you have South Tacoma Auto on your side.

Whether you need a quick diagnostic, a minor repair, or a full battery replacement, the skilled technicians at South Tacoma Auto will ensure that your car can always start reliably. We sell a wide selection of different auto batteries for both cold and warm climates; whether you are gearing up for a long winter or getting ready to take your next summer road trip, we have the perfect battery for your vehicle. South Tacoma Auto carries all the top auto battery brands including DuraLast, Die Hard, Energizer, Duracell, Ever Start, True Start, and many more. Looking for a performance or high output car battery? South Tacoma Auto has you covered; we stock a great number of high output batteries that can power high-watt stereos and lights, as well as any additional in-car electronics and adaptors for appliances. If your battery seems to be fine, the South Tacoma Auto technicians can also inspect and service your alternator and alternator belt. Our state-of-the-art facility can also handle repairs and replacements of hybrid battery packs and electric motors. Battery problems can be frustrating, but South Tacoma Auto is always here to help you with expert battery diagnostics, repairs, and replacements. Come and see us today! We are close to Tacoma.

Make a service appointment today for auto battery diagnostics or car battery repairs at South Tacoma Auto.

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FAQs: Battery Service

How can you tell if your car battery needs replacing?

If your car battery is more than three years old, it's a good idea to have it tested annually to ensure that it's still in good working order. There are a few signs that your battery may be nearing the end of its life:

• The engine is slow to start, or doesn't start at all. This could be due to a weak battery that can't provide enough power to the starter motor.
• The headlights are dim or flicker when you start the engine. This could be due to a low battery voltage caused by a build-up of sulfate on the battery plates.
• Corrosion is present. Over time, the battery terminals can corrode, which can prevent the flow of electricity. Check the condition of the battery terminals. If they're corroded, that's a sign that the battery isn't working as well as it should.
• The car battery is leaking fluid or swollen or deformed in any way. If you notice any of these issues, it's best to replace the battery promptly, as it's a sign the battery is not operating properly and could cause problems down the road.
• The check engine light is on. In some cars, a low battery voltage can trigger the check engine light. Or, your car may have a battery light that displays when a voltage issue is detected. If either of these lights comes on, you'll want to have your battery tested and inspected.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to have your battery checked as soon as possible. A dying battery can cause a range of problems, so it's best to catch it early before it leaves you stranded. Schedule a battery test, and know that a replacement unit might be in order.

How much should a car battery replacement cost?

The cost of replacing a car battery can vary depending on several factors, such as your car's make and model, the battery type you need, and where you have the work done. You can expect to pay between $50 to $200 for a new car battery.

If you will have the work done at a dealership or by a certified mechanic, you can expect parts and labor costs. If you want to do the work yourself, then you could potentially save some money by buying a replacement battery and installing it yourself.

What are the three tests performed on a battery?

The three tests performed on a car battery are:

1. An open circuit test measures the battery's ability to produce a voltage when not under load.
2. A load test measures the battery's ability to maintain a voltage while under load.
3. A capacity test measures the battery's overall capacity to store and deliver energy.

These tests are important because they help to determine whether a battery is in good condition and whether it requires replacing. If any of these tests reveal that the battery is not performing up to par, then it is likely time for a new one.

How do I check the health of my car battery?

There are several things that you can do in order to check the health of your car battery. One thing that you can do is to check the voltage of your battery. You can accomplish this by using a voltmeter.

Another option is to check the specific gravity of the electrolyte in your battery. You can do this by utilizing a hydrometer. Finally, you can also check the amount of charge that is left in your battery by using a charge meter.

For any of these tests, you can always turn to your trusted local mechanic or auto repair shop.

How many years does a car battery last?

Most car batteries will last between three and five years. There are exceptions to this rule, so some batteries may last longer or shorter depending on the individual circumstances, such as the type of driving you do, as well as the climate where your vehicle is driven and stored.

You can ask a qualified mechanic or auto parts specialist for assistance to determine when it's time to replace your car's battery.