Is Your Car Battery Dying? Top Signs and Prevention Tips from Team Ryan Automotive

A dead car battery can leave you stranded and stressed, but knowing the warning signs can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns. At Team Ryan Automotive, we're committed to keeping you informed and your vehicle running smoothly. In this post, we'll discuss the top signs that your car battery may be failing and provide expert tips on how to prevent battery-related issues.

Top Signs Your Car Battery Is Failing

1. Slow Engine Crank

If your engine takes longer than usual to start, it could be a sign that your battery is struggling to provide enough power. Pay attention to any unusual delays in starting your vehicle, as this is often one of the first noticeable signs of a weak battery.

2. Illuminated Dashboard Warning Light

Most modern vehicles have a battery or charging system warning light on the dashboard. If this light illuminates, it indicates a potential issue with your battery or charging system. Don't ignore this warning – bring your car to Team Ryan Automotive for a thorough testing and diagnosis.

3. Dim or Flickering Lights

Your car battery powers various electrical components, including your headlights and interior lights. If you notice your lights dimming or flickering, especially when the car is idling, it could signify that your battery is losing its charge.

4. Corroded Battery Terminals

Inspect your battery for signs of corrosion, which appears as a white or blue powdery substance on the terminals. Corrosion can prevent your battery from charging or functioning properly, leading to decreased performance and potential failure.

5. Swollen Battery Case

Extreme temperatures can cause your battery to swell or become misshapen. If you notice your battery case bulging, it's a clear indication that it needs to be replaced.

6. Age of Your Battery

On average, car batteries last between 3 to 5 years. If your battery is approaching the end of its lifespan, it's wise to replace it before problems arise.

7. Preventing Battery-Related Breakdowns

Being proactive is key to avoiding battery issues. Here are some tips to keep your battery in top shape:

Schedule regular battery inspections during routine maintenance at Team Ryan Automotive
Avoid leaving electronics, such as headlights or the radio, on when the engine is off
Park your car in a garage or shaded area to protect your battery from extreme temperatures
Keep your battery terminals clean by removing corrosion with a baking soda and water mixture. Be sure to thoroughly rinse the surrounding area with plenty of water.

Trust Team Ryan Automotive for Your Battery Needs

At Team Ryan Automotive, we understand the importance of a reliable car battery. Our expert technicians are here to help you with all your battery-related needs, from testing and cleaning to replacement. Some of the benefits of choosing Team Ryan Automotive for your battery service include:

Comprehensive battery testing and diagnostics
High-quality battery replacements with industry-leading warranties
Expert advice on maintaining your battery's health and longevity
Convenient scheduling and prompt service

Don't let a dying car battery catch you off guard. By familiarizing yourself with the warning signs and taking proactive steps to maintain your battery's health, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Trust Team Ryan Automotive to be your partner in battery maintenance and all your vehicle's needs. Schedule your battery inspection today and enjoy peace of mind on the road.

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Stay Road-Ready: Summer Car Emergency Kit Essentials from Team Ryan Automotive

By Dan Ryan • May 21, 2025

How Essential Is a Summer Emergency Kit?

How Heat Affects Your Tires and What You Can Do About It

By Dan Ryan • May 9, 2025

Summer heat affects every part of your car, but your tires are especially vulnerable. The hot pavement, rising internal pressure, and long drives can all contribute to tire failure. At Team Ryan Automotive, we want to make sure your tires stay safe and road-ready all season. Here is how summer heat impacts your tires and what you can do to protect them. 1. Increased Air Pressure As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. For every 10-degree increase in temperature, tire pressure can rise by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI). Overinflation can cause tires to wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to your vehicle’s recommended levels. 2. Faster Tread Wear Heat softens rubber, making it wear down more quickly. This is especially true if you are driving at high speeds on hot asphalt. Inspect your tires weekly during the summer for signs of excessive or uneven tread wear. If you notice balding or sidewall damage, it is time for a replacement. 3. Risk of Blowouts Blowouts are more common in summer because the combination of high speed, high pressure, and worn tires creates the perfect storm. To reduce your risk, avoid overloading your vehicle, maintain proper tire pressure, and replace old or worn tires as soon as needed. 4. Importance of Tire Rotation Rotating your tires helps them wear evenly, improving traction and extending their lifespan. Team Ryan Automotive recommends rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This simple step can save you money and help keep your vehicle safe. 5. Alignment and Balancing Improper wheel alignment or unbalanced tires can cause uneven wear and strain on your suspension. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at high speeds, schedule a wheel alignment and tire balancing service. This can enhance tire performance and improve ride comfort. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for Tire Safety Tire safety is essential for your comfort, performance, and protection. If you are not sure about the condition of your tires, let our experts take a look. We offer tire inspections, pressure adjustments, rotations, alignments, and tire replacements. Whether you are commuting around town or planning a summer getaway, we will make sure your tires are ready for the heat. Keep your summer rolling smoothly with tire care you can trust. Schedule your tire service today at Team Ryan Automotive.

Top 5 Road Trip Tips to Prevent Breakdowns This Summer

By Dan Ryan • May 9, 2025

Summer road trips are a classic American tradition. Whether you are headed to the beach, the mountains, or your favorite theme park, the journey should be just as enjoyable as the destination. To help you avoid unexpected delays and make the most of your trip, here are five key vehicle preparation tips from Team Ryan Automotive. 1. Start with an Oil Change Fresh oil helps your engine stay cool, reduces friction, and supports fuel efficiency. If your oil is dirty or your last change was more than 3,000 miles ago, schedule an oil change before your trip. Remember, all TRA oil changes come with our complimentary Standard Vehicle Inspection. 2. Inspect Tires for Wear and Pressure Proper tire maintenance is essential for road safety. Check the tread depth to ensure there is enough grip, especially if you expect rain. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of dry rot that could lead to blowouts. Finally, make sure all four tires are inflated to the correct pressure. Do not forget to check the spare tire too. 3. Test Your Battery and Charging System No one wants to deal with a dead battery in the middle of a road trip. Summer heat can weaken your battery and stress your alternator. Visit Team Ryan Automotive for a battery test and charging system inspection. If your battery is nearing the end of its life, we will recommend a replacement to keep you powered up. 4. Check Brakes and Brake Fluid Reliable brakes are vital for a safe trip. Listen for squeaking or grinding when braking and watch for a spongy pedal feel. These could be signs that your brake pads or fluid need attention. Let us perform a full brake inspection to make sure your vehicle is ready for any driving condition. 5. Prepare Your Emergency Kit Every road trip should include an emergency kit. Stock it with jumper cables, a flashlight, basic tools, bottled water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable snacks. Having these items on hand can help you handle unexpected delays or mechanical issues more comfortably. Bonus Tip: Schedule a Pre-Trip Inspection Before hitting the road, bring your vehicle to Team Ryan Automotive for a pre-trip inspection . Our certified technicians will check your fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and more. We will catch small issues before they become trip-ending problems. Enjoy Peace of Mind on the Road A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to summer travel. Our team is here to help you enjoy your road trip with fewer surprises and more smiles. Schedule your service visit today and travel with peace of mind.