Symptoms of a Flat Battery in a Mercedes in Thousand Oaks

Imagine this scenario for a moment: you have an important meeting to attend, and you get into your Mercedes and turn the key but nothing happens. Your vehicle won’t start. A Mercedes is known for its reliability, so one would not expect to be experiencing issues with a dead battery, but unfortunately, it can occur no matter what brand of car you own. A good practice is to familiarize yourself with the symptoms of a dead battery so you can recognize this before you find yourself in this situation.

The battery converts chemical energy to electrical energy. It supplies power to the starter, which enables the engine to run. Once the engine is running, the alternator is powered. It operates the headlights, windshield wipers, sound system, and climate control among other things.

Symptoms of a Dying Battery

Although your Mercedes may give you a warning that your battery may be dying, here are the signs to keep an eye out for.

• Slow to Start: It is generally accepted that when the winter months approach, most vehicles are slow to start. The colder it gets, the slower the start becomes. However, you should take note if there is no drop in temperature and your Mercedes suddenly begins behaving in this manner. Should you ignore this sign, the result could be that the car will eventually not start at all.
• Headlights Work but the Car Won’t Start: As mentioned, the function of the battery is to provide power to the vehicle. If you turn the key and the lights, radio, and wipers work, but you hear a clicking buzzing noise or your headlights are dim, then the battery is low. Often drivers will not consider a low battery if the lights and accessories are working. However, those functions do not require a high supply of power. Jump starting should only be done in exceptional circumstances, the battery should be tested immediately.
• The Battery is Swollen: You may have noticed that when household batteries are faulty, they sometimes swell. The same is true for car batteries. If your car battery is swollen, the alternator has a faulty voltage regulator and has overcharged the battery. If this is the case the battery is damaged and needs to be replaced immediately, as the damage is irreversible.
• Old Battery: The average lifespan of a battery is four to 6 years. It is good practice to bring your vehicle to our trusted repair center to get tested.
• The Check Engine Light Illuminates: The check engine light comes on for a variety of issues. A professional can help you figure out the diagnostic code and you’re one step closer to getting your vehicle repaired. In some cases, it may be signaling that the battery is low.
• Backfiring: A car backfiring is a sure sign that there is an issue with your Mercedes. A backfiring vehicle could be a symptom of one of a few different issues. It is best to get your battery checked immediately.
• Odd Smell from Your Car’s Battery: Generally, a battery does not have a smell. However, a sure sign that your battery is about to fail is a sulphuric scent or the smell of rotten eggs emanating from it. This signals that gasses have leaked and will damage other parts of the engine.

The Next Step: A Visit to Bavarian Performance Specialists

If you’ve noted the symptoms and self-diagnosed the issue to be a battery problem, we have you covered. If you are in Agoura Hills, Westlake, Malibu, and Newbury Park, CA come visit us at Bavarian Performance Specialists. We are conveniently located at 3121 Thousand Oaks Blvd. #1 in Thousand Oaks, CA.

We are a Bosch Certified service shop that has the expert knowledge and equipment to properly care for your Mercedes. Our professionally-trained staff will inspect your vehicle and offer honest communication on what your next steps should be. We aim to get your Mercedes safely back on the road quickly and affordably.

Contact us today. A battery replacement is not an expensive undertaking. However, if left unchecked, you may have a big towing bill on your hands. Call or visit us today for a quick inspection!