There are a number of dashboard warning lights that can pop on at any minute. Everyone knows what the oil light and low fuel light are for, but a lot of them require pulling out the owners’ manual.
This month, we want to highlight the battery warning light. If this light comes on while you're driving down Route 41 in Appleton, there could be a problem with your car's battery, or it could be something more serious like the alternator. If the light comes on while you are driving, you don’t need to pull over immediately. In fact, you should avoid turning off the car until you reach a safe location, such as your home or any of Auto Select's three Appleton locations, where assistance is available. Turning off the engine before then might mean that you won’t be able to restart the car. Make it easier on your battery while you get to a safe location by turning off unnecessary accessories like the radio, A/C and any accessories like a GPS or cell phone charger.
As soon as you can, come by or contact Auto Select in Appleton, and we'll help you diagnose the problem with your car. There could be low water levels in the battery, corroded terminals preventing a full charge, or loose connections between the car battery cables and terminals. If the battery is already 3 to 5 years old, it may be time to replace it. If the battery is new, the problem could be the alternator, which is responsible for charging your battery as you travel. If the alternator is not doing its job properly, your battery isn’t fully recharging. Other causes for the battery light include loose cables, a loose connection from the fan belt to the alternator or even an improperly mounted battery.
Don’t get stranded! Winter is on its way. Is your car battery ready? Schedule your appointment at Auto Select today. We have nine convenient auto repair locations in Appleton, Green Bay, Stevens Point and Weston (Wausau). Our trained technicians will check your battery and run tests to make sure your battery won’t leave you out in the cold.