Many drivers are unaware that their car battery voltage drops while driving. This guide will teach you how to fix it – so you can keep your car running smoothly. Low voltage can lead to a number of problems, so it’s important to be proactive and address the issue as soon as possible. Follow this guide to learn how to fix sudden battery voltage drops while driving.
Why The Battery Gauge Drops While Driving
Your car battery voltage drops while driving due to a bad alternator, a battery with low performance, and a loose connection. This is why you must check them first to determine why your battery gauge fluctuates.
The 5 most common reasons why your battery gauge fluctuates are:
- A Bad Alternator
- Old Battery
- Car was Abandoned
- Loose Connections
- Battery Corrosion
How To Fix Battery Voltage Drops While Driving?
If you notice that your battery voltage drops while driving, it is likely due to the: –
- The alternator does not provide enough power to the battery. This can be fixed by replacing the alternator or increasing the battery’s power.
- You should also know how to properly take care of your car battery to prevent voltage drops in the first place. Often, the voltage drop is caused by a damaged or loose battery cable.
- Check your cables for damage and make sure they are securely attached to the battery terminals. You can also clean the battery terminals with a baking soda and water solution to remove any corrosion that may be causing a poor connection.
- If your battery is more than three years old, it may be time to replace it. A new battery will have a higher voltage and be able to provide more power to the car. Be sure to properly dispose of your old battery, as batteries contain harmful chemicals that can leak into the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Que 1: When Should A Car Battery Be Replaced?
Ans: Battery voltage should be replaced if it drops below 12 volts overnight after charging. The battery should also be replaced if the voltage drops below 9.5 or 10 while the engine is running.
Que 2: Are 11.6 Volts Enough To Start A Car?
Ans: The car will start with a battery of 11.6 volts in most cases, but it will struggle, and you may only get one or two tries before it dies. Be sure to turn off all auxiliary devices before you try starting the car, such as the radio, headlights, and blower.
Que 3: What affects An Alternator?
Ans: Alternators usually die from old age. But it can also happen because of voltage spikes made by a faulty battery or chemical contaminants like motor oil and coolant.
Also Read: How To Start A Car With A Bad Crankshaft Sensor?
Conclusion
If you take these simple steps, you should be able to keep your car running well for years to come. Have you ever experienced battery voltage drops while driving? What did you do to fix it? Let us know in the comments below!
