A dead battery is probably the worst start to any driver's day. Fortunately, in Cleveland, OH, your friendly Ford dealer is here to help. We can test your battery for you and repair or replace it when necessary. These are a few signs you'll need a new car battery. Signs You Need a New Car Battery From Your Ford Dealer Dim Headlights One of the signs of a weak battery is dim headlights. This problem could also be caused by a damaged alternator or worn wiring. Dim headlights are a sign that the bulbs aren't receiving enough power. If your lights are dim when the engine is switched off, and brighter when the engine is on, your battery is the problem. If the lights are dim when the engine is running, you could have an alternator or wiring problem. Finally, the dim lights could mean the bulbs need replacing. Our technicians will need to investigate this problem. If your battery is weak, we can install a new one while you wait. We'll also examine the wiring and the alternator, and check the bulbs. If any of these components are failing, they can be quickly replaced for you. more Old Battery A battery has a limited life, as the chemical reactions that allow it to store and supply power eventually cause it to fail. This fact is due to the chemical reactions inside a battery. Sulfuric acid and other chemicals react with the copper and electrolyte solution to store energy. Gradually, the chemicals in the battery will break down into other chemicals. Sulfuric acid is one of the most important chemicals, and its breakdown releases hydrogen. Hydrogen gas in the engine can result in the formation of new chemicals which cause corrosion in your engine. The chemical breakdown also reduces your battery's charging capacity and ability to recharge. We'll connect your battery to our battery tester. If it fails the tests, we'll replace your battery. Warped Casing The chemicals and electrolyte solution inside your battery can cause damage to the casing under extreme hot to cold conditions. The external temperature and atmospheric pressure alter the battery's chemical makeup, and this can cause the battery case to distort. A battery is normally rectangular, but if your battery shows irregular distortions or warping, it's sustained damage. We can't replace a warped battery case, but we can replace the battery. If you see your battery distorted, it's already failing. If the battery isn't replaced, it will fail and can cause corrosion of the battery cables and other metal components as it does so. A battery always shows signs that it's failing. This allows you time to get a replacement. If your battery is showing signs of wear or age, call us at Ken Ganley Ford West.