Blogs

What to Do When Your Car’s Battery Is Struggling in the Heat

No Comments

Summers in Tulare, CA can get brutally hot, and just like the human body, your vehicle’s battery doesn’t perform well under extreme temperatures. High heat can cause battery fluid to evaporate, lead to internal damage, and shorten the overall lifespan of your battery. If your car is slow to start, showing electrical issues, or giving you dashboard warnings, it could be your battery telling you something important.

At Frank’s Automotive Repair, we frequently help drivers handle battery problems during the summer. Understanding what to watch for—and knowing what to do—can prevent being stranded on a hot roadside.

Why Hot Weather is Hard on Car Batteries

Many people assume cold weather is the enemy of batteries, but heat can be even worse. When temperatures rise:

  • Battery fluid evaporatesfaster.
  • Internal corrosion increases, damaging plates and terminals.
  • Charging systems work harder, especially when AC and other systems are running nonstop.

In Tulare’s high temperatures, this kind of strain happens daily—especially during long road trips or stop-and-go traffic.

Signs Your Battery Is Failing

It’s important to recognize early symptoms of a weak battery. Common signs include:

  • Slow engine crank– the engine turns over slowly when starting.
  • Dim headlights– lights dim when the engine is idling or accessories are running.
  • Clicking sounds– when you turn the key, you hear a click but no engine crank.
  • Battery warning light– a dashboard icon shaped like a battery may illuminate.
  • Electrical glitches– power windows, radio, or dashboard lights behave erratically.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to have your battery checked.

What To Do If Your Battery Is Struggling

1.Get a Battery Test

At Frank’s Automotive Repair, we offer free battery tests. This quick diagnostic checks your battery’s charge, cranking power, and overall condition. It’s the best way to know if it needs replacement or just a charge.

2.Clean the Battery Terminals

Sometimes a poor connection is the problem. Corrosion on battery terminals can prevent proper electrical flow. Cleaning terminals with a brush and baking soda solution can restore function temporarily—but don’t forget to get it checked professionally.

3.Check the Alternator

Your battery might not be the issue. The alternator keeps the battery charged, and if it’s malfunctioning, the battery drains faster. Our team can test both the battery and the alternator in one visit.

4.Avoid Excess Electrical Use

Turn off unnecessary electronics when idling—like phone chargers, the stereo, or AC on full blast. This reduces strain on the battery and helps preserve its charge during hot days.

FAQs About Car Batteries in the Summer

Q: How long does a car battery last in hot climates?
A: In high-heat areas like Tulare, car batteries often last 2 to 3 years—less than the average 3-5 year lifespan due to increased evaporation and corrosion.
Q: Can I prevent battery issues in the summer?
A: Yes. Regular inspections, keeping terminals clean, and testing your battery before a heatwave or trip can prevent surprises.
Q: Should I replace my battery before it dies?
A: Absolutely. If your battery is near the end of its life or showing early failure signs, replacing it can save you from being stranded.
Q: How do I know if it’s the battery or alternator?
A: If your battery dies often but tests fine, the alternator may be failing. A full charging system test at Frank’s Automotive Repair can identify the cause.

Beat the Heat with a Strong Battery

Tulare’s summer heat can quickly turn a weak battery into a dead one. Don’t wait for that to happen. Whether you’re staying local or planning a summer road trip, make sure your battery is ready.

Visit Frank’s Automotive Repair for a free battery test, quick replacement, or full system inspection. Drive with confidence—no matter how high the temperature climbs.

keyboard_arrow_up

Accessibility Toolbar