When you find out that you’re running low on battery and you’re not able to start your vehicle, it can be a scary experience.
There may be some good news despite how it appears at first. What it is, why it occurs, and how to fix it will be discussed in this article. Keep reading.
How Do Battery Low Start Vehicles Work?
My experience as a mechanic provides me with a good understanding of the fault messages that appear on different vehicles.
A battery monitor (BMS) detection of a low charge level means that your battery is low and you can’t start the vehicle.
BMSs monitor your vehicle’s battery status by way of a computer. Batteries are monitored using sensors that detect their charge level and temperature.
What Causes Low Car Battery?
Here are some of the causes that I have encountered based on my experience with the error message.
Battery that has run out of power
In a car with an old or near-end of life battery, you will notice poor performance.
Wearing out a battery will result in low starting voltage.
Having owned the car for a long time, you may have neglected the battery.
Depending on how often you drive, you should change the battery in your car every 3-5 years.
After a long time without changing your battery, the charging system may not work properly.
Driven your car less than usual
Because your battery’s capacity is limited, it is the alternator that recharges it during idle time.
When the car isn’t driven much and left idling for a long time, an alternator needs to charge a low-charge battery.
Alternator failure:
Mechanical energy is converted to electrical energy by the alternator.
Charged batteries and lights are both powered by the alternator.
If it cannot charge the battery because it isn’t sending power to it, the dashboard will display a “low battery start vehicle” message.
Batteries with loose connections or corroded contacts
Battery connections that are loose or corroded may also cause the “low battery start vehicle” message.
A loose connection affects the alternator’s ability to pass power to the battery, resulting in your vehicle’s battery draining away
Battery charge may be reduced or not charged at all if corrosion and corrosion buildup have been present for a long period of time.
Exceptionally cold weather
Your car battery will lose its charge faster in cold weather, preventing you from getting the most out of it.
Batteries can discharge in a few days when it is extremely cold outside. Batteries generate less power at cold temperatures due to slowed chemical reactions.
How To Fix “Battery Low Start Vehicle”?
My recommendation when you receive the message on your dashboard is to do the following:
1. Drive a short distance in the car
In order to start your vehicle after receiving the “battery low” message, you need to do the following first. For the alternator to charge the battery, the car should be started and driven for a few miles at least.
Jump-starting the car or using a portable battery charger will help you start it if it won’t start.
Hopefully, the problem is solved once you drive for awhile, but if it still appears, you may need a new battery.
2. Replace the batteries
Battery replacement is required if you still have problems after driving and charging the battery. If you need a new battery, you can get it from an auto parts store or mechanic.
3. Make sure the charger is working
A malfunctioning alternator is likely the cause if your battery has been replaced or it is relatively new. The mechanic or dealer should check it and possibly fix it for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the “Battery Low Start Vehicle” message mean?
The “Battery Low Start Vehicle” message indicates that the vehicle’s battery charge is insufficient to start the engine. This warning often appears when accessories are used without the engine running, draining the battery further.
What should I do if I see this warning?
If you encounter this warning, it is advisable to start the engine to allow the alternator to recharge the battery. If the message persists after starting, you may need to check the battery’s health or consult a mechanic.
Can using accessories drain my battery?
Yes, using electrical accessories like lights, sound systems, or climate control without the engine running can significantly drain the battery. It’s best to limit accessory use when the vehicle is off to avoid low battery issues.
When should I replace my car battery?
Consider replacing your car battery if it shows signs of frequent problems, is over three years old, or fails to hold a charge after being recharged. Always choose a replacement that matches your vehicle’s specifications.
Is it necessary to reset anything after replacing a car battery?
Yes, after replacing a car battery, some vehicles may require a battery monitor reset to clear any low battery warnings from the dashboard display. Consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions on how to perform this reset.
