When summer temperatures hit their peak in Hurst and Carrollton, many drivers are surprised to find their car battery giving them trouble. While cold weather gets a lot of blame for battery issues, extremeheat is actually worsewhen it comes to draining your car’s power source.
AtRev-Up Auto, we help drivers across North Texas stay road-ready year-round. If your battery is sluggish, slow to start, or showing signs of wear during the hot summer months, here’s what you need to know—and what you should do next.
Why Heat is Hard on Car Batteries
High temperatures cause the liquid inside your car battery toevaporate faster, which can lead to internal damage. In addition, heat can cause thebattery’s plates to corrodeand reduce its lifespan. When this happens, you might notice your car hesitating to start, especially after sitting in the sun.
Hot weather also increases the strain on your electrical system because you’re more likely to run the A/C, lights, and infotainment systems. All that power draw can leave your battery drained and overworked.
Signs Your Car Battery Is Struggling in the Heat
Before you’re stuck with a dead battery in the middle of a summer day, keep an eye out for these common warning signs:
1.Slow Engine Crank
If your engine takes longer than usual to start, it may be due to a weak battery.
2.Dim Headlights or Interior Lights
A struggling battery can’t supply enough power, which shows up in lights that seem less bright than normal.
3.Electrical Malfunctions
If your radio, power windows, or dashboard lights act up, your battery might not be delivering consistent voltage.
4.Battery Warning Light
If your dash light shaped like a battery comes on, it could be a charging issue or a failing battery.
What to Do If Your Battery Is Acting Up
Step 1:Test the Battery Voltage
If you have a multimeter, check the battery voltage. A healthy battery should read between12.4 and 12.7 voltswhen the engine is off.
Step 2:Check for Corrosion
Inspect the terminals for a white or bluish powdery buildup. This is corrosion and can interfere with the connection. Clean it carefully using gloves and a battery-safe cleaner or baking soda solution.
Step 3:Drive Regularly or Use a Battery Maintainer
If your car sits unused for days at a time, the battery may slowly drain. Driving regularly or using a battery maintainer helps keep it charged.
Step 4:Visit Rev-Up Auto for a Battery Test
If your battery is older than three years, or you notice any of the warning signs, bring your vehicle to Rev-Up Auto. We’ll test your battery’s charge and overall health—and recommend a replacement if necessary.
Common Questions About Summer Battery Issues
Q: How long does a car battery last in Texas heat?
A: Most batteries last about 3–5 years, but extreme heat can shorten their lifespan to closer to 2–3 years.
Q: Can a battery just stop working without warning?
A: Yes. Batteries often fail suddenly, especially in high heat. That’s why routine checks are important.
Q: Will jump-starting fix a bad battery?
A: It may get you started, but if your battery is worn out, it won’t hold a charge for long. It’s a short-term solution.
Q: Can I replace my car battery myself?
A: You can, but incorrect installation can damage your vehicle’s electrical system. It’s best to have a professional do it.
Stay Powered Up This Summer with Rev-Up Auto
Don’t let a weak battery ruin your summer plans. At Rev-Up Auto, we offerquick and reliable battery diagnostics, replacements, and electrical checksto keep your car running strong—whether you’re commuting in Carrollton or road-tripping from Hurst.
Visit Rev-Up Auto today for a battery check, and beat the heat with confidence.