Apart from a flat tire, the worst thing that can happen to your car while driving is that its battery goes dead. Many wonder if their car battery can even die when driving.
There are various reasons why a car battery can die and stop while driving, and as a driver or owner of the car, you should be aware of the reasons to fix them. This is because you may not get a car mechanic in the middle of the road, and hence, you have to understand the problem and know the method to fix the issue to bring your car to life again.
Outline
ToggleReasons Why The Car Battery Drains/Dies While Driving
1. Being out of Fuel
One of the primary reasons your car dies while driving is when the battery is out of fuel. This is a common thing and happens to most of us. It is important to feed your car with fuel so that you will be able to restart the engine. Once you pump diesel or petrol, you will be able to go ahead with your driving. To prevent this, you need to note the slight buzzing sound while starting your car. However, it will be advisable to check the fuel gauge by a professional as there can be a false reading.
2. Alternator Problems
The battery of your car can run off even when the alternator has some issues. You will have to note that the alternator supplies additional electric power and charges the battery when the engine is running. It is very important for the electrical systems of your vehicle. Even when you happen to get a new battery, it needs proper charge by the alternator.
To make your car go, the battery and the alternator must work collectively. If you happen to see a red battery light flickering on the dashboard, it means that the alternator is sending an S.O.S. You will have to stop your car immediately and visit an auto-repairing service provider to fix the problem.
3. Problematic Ignition Switch
If there is a malfunctioning ignition switch, you will be able to face various problems. Your car will not start, and you can even not have access to radio and other appliances. It happens as a worn-down ignition switch can cause a loss of power to the engine. It is the power loss that can make the car die out while driving.
4. Something is Faulty In the Fuel Pump
Another reason that can make a car stop while driving is when there is something wrong with the fuel pump. For this, it is important to be careful while feeding your car with fuel. If by any chance you happen to pump petrol into diesel cars or diesel into petrol cars, you may face this problem. It will lead to unwanted car failures. Another reason may be if something is blocking the filter or the fuel pump. It is always advisable to get your car towed by visiting the nearest workshop. In some cases, you may even hear a slight buzzing sound while first starting your car.
5. Malfunctioning Sensors
You will have to note that the sensors can detect both physical and chemical changes in the car. However, at times the sensors can fail and give incorrect information. This can greatly impact the performance and efficiency of the vehicle. Do keep in mind that modern cars come with computers. It is one of the reasons that it can transmit wrong information.
6. A Faulty Battery
We know that a dead battery will not start. If there is a faulty or bad battery, you will not face any problem while starting. However, it may become dead while driving. One of the reasons for this is that the alternator keeps the engine system running. When the alternator does not cause more stress, there will be a risk of stalling. Keep in mind that even a (high-end) car battery can last for a maximum of 2 years. It is important to replace the car battery so that you don’t face any stalling problems.
Steps You Should Take When Your Car Battery Drains/Dies While Driving
If your car battery dies while driving, you should always prioritize safety. This is not just for you but also for other people who are driving their vehicles. You can take the following steps to prevent any hazards.
1. Guide Car to the Side of Road
The first thing you should keep in mind is to take the car on the side of the road. Even when there is a loss of power on brakes and steering, you can still pull over. However, do not panic, even though it can be difficult. By using the emergency brake, you can move the car to a safe area. Make sure that there is enough room and you don’t block the way of other drivers.
2. Try to Restart your Car
Wait for a while and try to restart your car. You can begin by taking out the key from the ignition. Allow the car to rest for a while and try to start it. In some cases, your car can start, which is great. However, keep in mind that you need to go to the repair shop and evaluate the problem. This will make sure that you don’t face any such issues while driving.
3. Turn your Emergency Flashers on
To maintain better safety, it is advisable to turn on the emergency flashers. This will let other drivers know that you are unable to restart your car. You will get the space when you put on the flashers.
4. Call for Help
Your car battery can stop while driving. Never panic and be careful to handle the situation. You can always call someone from a repair shop to deal with the problem. In some cases, you may even receive maintenance tips from car experts. Do note that you need to resolve the issue as soon as possible.
Issues Faced When Car Battery Dies While Driving
A car battery comes with life. Even when you happen to get the best car battery, it will die due to a variety of reasons. When a car battery dies while driving you can face various issues like
- Your car will stall in the middle of a road while driving.
- While restarting, the car’s engine will turn over multiple times.
- The engine will fail to turn on during cold climates.
- The exterior and interior lights do not turn on or become dull.
- The fan will run slow or not run at all.
- The radio will receive a weak signal ok and turn off randomly.
- There will be non-existent or low heated water levels.
- The battery will give up shortly once you shut off the engine of the car.
- The components of the battery will be loose, broken, or worn out.
- There will not be enough power for running the injectors or spark plugs.
How Do I Know When a Car Battery Needs Replacing?
You should always know how to check if the car battery needs replacement. Never wait until the battery is completely stranded. If the car battery is dead, you can look for the best replacement battery. To confirm if your car battery needs replacement, you can follow the necessary steps.
-
Checking Battery Age
All car batteries come with life expectancy. It can vary from one unit to another. Check the engraved code or sticker on the battery to know the age of the battery. Alternatively, you can even look at the manufacturer’s shipping date for the code. For example, A17 refers to January 2017. Similarly, B18 and C18 stand for February 2018 March 2018, respectively. This is an easier way of confirming the age of the battery.
-
Testing Battery’s Voltage
To test the car’s battery voltage, you can visit the nearest auto parts dealer or a mechanic shop. Battery voltage testing takes a few moments, and it is mostly free. If you happen to confirm that the battery voltage of the car is low, then you need to go for replacement.
Conclusion
We have mentioned all the possible reasons why your car battery can become dead. You can understand them properly so that you can identify the main issue easily when your car battery goes dead. Take all the steps we have mentioned when your car battery goes dead, and you should consider replacing your faulty battery to avoid such a scenario.
One Response
When I’m driving, why is my battery gauge just go up and down?