When you turn the key in your car’s ignition, you expect it to start. But if your car battery is draining when trying to start, then you may be left with an engine that won’t turn over. This can be a frustrating experience and can leave you feeling helpless and unsure of what to do next. The good news is that the underlying issue is likely something simple and easy to fix on your own. In this article, we will take a look at how to diagnose and repair a car battery that drains when trying to start.
Why Does My Car Battery Drain When Trying To Start?
There are several potential causes for why your car might have difficulty starting after the battery has drained: It could be because of a faulty alternator, which is responsible for charging the battery; it could be because of old or faulty wiring; or it could simply be because of a weak or dead battery itself. In order to determine what the exact cause of this problem is, we need to run some tests on the car and its components in order to rule out any potential issues one by one.
What Tools Do I Need To Diagnose & Fix A Draining Car Battery?
Before we can start troubleshooting, there are some essential tools that you need to have on hand. This includes an electrical multimeter to measure voltage, a wrench set for connecting and disconnecting wires, and a few other miscellaneous items such as electrical tape or solder. You may also need to replace the battery, depending on the results of your tests.
Step-By-Step Instructions for Troubleshooting & Fixing The Issue
The first step is to use the multimeter to check the battery’s voltage level. If it reads 12 volts or less, then it may be time for a new battery. If it reads higher than 12 volts, then you will want to move on and test the alternator next. Remove any corroded or damaged wiring first before proceeding with this test; if everything looks good then use the multimeter again and look for an output of between 13.5 and 14.5 volts from the alternator while the engine is running (if not, then you may need a new alternator).
Once all of these tests have been run successfully and everything appears in order, reconnect any loose wires that you disconnected during testing before starting up your car one more time. If the issue persists, then you may need to contact a professional mechanic for further advice. Also see here the best batteries for Ford.
Preventative Maintenance & Tips for Maintaining Your Car Battery’s Health
You can help prevent your car battery from draining by making sure it is always properly maintained. Keep the terminals clean and free of corrosion, check the battery regularly for any signs of wear or damage, and ensure that you are using the correct type of battery for your vehicle. Regularly checking your alternator’s output voltage is also a good idea since it is responsible for charging the battery when the engine is running.
Conclusion
If your car battery drains when trying to start, then there could be several potential causes behind this problem. However, with some basic troubleshooting and understanding of how car batteries work, you can quickly diagnose and resolve this issue in no time. Be sure to check all wiring connections before starting any tests, and if all else fails then don’t hesitate to contact a professional mechanic for assistance.
