If you drive any commercial vehicle, whether it’s a truck, van, or bus, you are likely aware that the battery is one of the most critical components of the vehicle. It is the heart of all electrical systems of the vehicle; providing the necessary power to start the engine and run other accessories you may have installed in your vehicle.
Like all other components, the commercial vehicle batteries also have a specific lifespan. Over time, they lose their natural ability to hold a charge and deliver the same kind of power as they did initially. A failing battery can disrupt the vehicle’s performance, leaving you stranded at the worst time. However, the batteries don’t fail or start functioning inefficiently overnight.
As a commercial vehicle owner, taking note of the early signs of battery failure can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. In this guide, we will discuss some of the prominent signs that indicate it’s time to replace your old commercial vehicle battery with a new one.
If you have been driving a commercial vehicle for an extended period, you will understand the importance of periodically inspecting the battery to ensure it remains in optimal condition and performs efficiently. However, even after regular upkeep, over time, you may notice physical changes to the battery. If you notice any such differences, such as a swollen case, it could be a sign that the battery is starting to fail.
The inflated battery could occur due to overheating or a chemical reaction within the battery. Regardless of the cause of the bloated truck battery, it is advisable to consider replacing it.
Like all batteries, commercial vehicle batteries also have a limited lifespan. Generally, some of the best commercial vehicle batteries offered by leading battery providers like Tata Green Batteries last for about three to five years. However, the durability may vary based on a variety of factors like usage, the climate and temperature conditions to which the vehicle is exposed, regular maintenance, etc.
However, if your battery is near the end of its lifespan or has exceeded its serviceable period, it is better to be proactive and replace it before it starts to fail and causes trouble while you’re driving on the road.
As the commercial vehicle’s performance starts to fail, it will surely have an impact on the vehicle’s overall performance as well. For example, some of the electrical components in your vehicle may start to malfunction. Like the headlights may not shine as brightly as they should, or the infotainment system may not function as efficiently as it did before.
As you drive the vehicle, and you start noticing such signs, these could be an indicator of a battery malfunction, which may not provide the necessary power to the truck’s electrical system. In such a scenario, it is better to replace the battery.
When selecting the right battery for your commercial vehicle, consider exploring the various options offered by Tata Green Batteries. These batteries deliver unmatched power and reliability, keeping trucks, buses, vans, and other heavy-duty vehicles running smoothly for an extended period.
Additionally, Tata Green Batteries are backed by cutting-edge technology from GS Yuasa Japan, the world’s leading battery manufacturer, and are designed to handle heavy loads and challenging road conditions.
Most modern commercial vehicles, including buses and trucks, are equipped with a battery warning light on their dashboards. If you notice that this light comes on and stays on for an extended period even after you start the engine, it is a clear sign of an issue with the battery or the charging system. If you ignore this warning sign, you may experience persistent performance issues with the vehicle, and certain components may fail, resulting in costly repairs.
So, as soon as you see the warning light on the dashboard, drive your vehicle to the nearest garage or service centre and replace the battery.
Another common sign of a failing battery is a sluggish or slow engine crank when attempting to start your vehicle. If you notice that your vehicle’s engine turns on slowly, especially during cold mornings, you can be assured that the battery’s health is failing and it does not have the capacity to provide enough power to start the engine efficiently. If you encounter this issue, ensure that you replace the battery.
As a commercial vehicle owner, it is your responsibility to keep a close eye on the battery’s performance and take note of the signs discussed above to avoid any inconvenience and disruptions to your work due to a dead battery.
Even with regular maintenance and checkups of the battery, it is essential to recognize that the battery must be replaced at the end of its lifespan. And, if you are in doubt about the battery’s performance, consult a professional, and if needed, replace the battery so that your vehicle runs smoothly.
