It can be very frustrating when your vehicle is not operating at its full capacity, and this often indicates one of your Ford parts is in need of repairs. Many times, this can be as simple as a battery problem. Here at Helfman Ford, we are happy to check your battery and make any needed repairs. In the meantime, there are simple steps you can take to determine if there is an issue with the performance of your battery.

Visual Inspection

First, open your hood and visually inspect your battery’s cables, connectors, and terminals to ensure all connections are secure. Remember, when you’re working with a battery, it’s important to take safety precautions by wearing gloves and safety goggles.

Check for any discoloration or bulges in the battery casing. Once you have verified secure connections, inspect for corrosion. Corrosion can impede the flow of power from your battery. If corrosion is present, cleaning the corrosion with a mixture of baking soda, water, and a wire brush can usually correct the problem.

Parasitic Drain

Next, look for a parasitic drain, which can deplete your battery’s charge when the car is turned off. External devices such as GPS units, cell phone chargers, and even a trunk light staying lit can drain your battery if they do not shut down properly. Disconnect the devices one by one to determine if that is a source of the drain on your battery.

Examine the Water Level

In a conventional unsealed lead acid battery, check the acid level. Decreased water levels can reduce power and cause failure. If necessary, fill with distilled water.

Let the Team at Helfman Ford Test Your Voltage

If you need a battery inspection and test, simply bring your car to Helfman Ford. Come on by our Stafford, TX Ford service center or give us a call so we schedule a time for our team of factory-trained, certified technicians to test your battery, diagnose the problem, and repair it.