renault laugna.....do i need a new battery?

Question

just got a 12 month mot last week on car, now my car wont start up somedays it has to be bumped, i dont use it all that much really, sometimes it cud b still for up to 3 days, sud i get a new battery for it or is it just cos its colder this year??

Answer 1

The MOT doesn't guarantee that the car will start - it simply checks a cars road worthyness - bodywork, condition of brakes, lights, safety features and emissions.
Before taking it to a garage (and paying through the nose) i'd definately try a new battery, coat the terminals in vaseline before you reconnect the leads (keeps out damp)... if a new battery doesn't work, take it to a garage and ask them to check the ht leads and ignition system... good luck!
Do a quick check - do the lights or radio work without the car running? if not then it's definately the battery.

Answer 2

Get a new battery then get a Multi meter from Maplin, £ 4.99
Check the voltage across the battery at a fast idle, if stable at less than 13.5 volts you have alternator trouble, should be stable or climbing towards 13.5 v with lights etc on at 1500 rpm if falling again alternator trouble. Generally if it has been flat a few times the battery will be no good.

Answer 3

before you buy a battery look at the connections and see if they are corroded. if they are go to your local parts store and buy a terminal brush. take the cables off the battery BLACK CABLE FIRST then clean the connections. if you have a "top mount battery clean the posts by taking the hole end of the brush and twisting it down over the posts until they turn silver. to clean the clamps take the brush and give it a 1/4 turn the top and bottom halves will separate reviling what looks like a wire q-tip take that end and brush the insides of the clamp until they turn silver.

Answer 4

Might be worth having it checked for electircal faults i.e something draining the battery. Beware of cheap batteries, the plates inside them are cheap. The heavier the battery the better it is. Plates will shrink slightly in the cold.

Works in fuel injection and car electrics.

Answer 5

Have the battery & charging system checked by a mechanic. It takes only a couple of minutes and will let you know if you need a new battery, new cables, new alternator, new voltage regulator, or if you just need to clean the terminals.

Answer 6

on the door take care of, there could be a sprint flap bit with a image of a key on it, in the back of that there is an emergency get entry to lead unlocking element for the main important, examine each and all the door handles, as there could be a element there someplace, because of the fact the producer has to place it in there for such circumstances as yours. Failing that, you will would desire to the two call the breakdown amenities, who gets into it for you with out injury to the motor vehicle, or injury a window, which will fee you greater advantageous than a sparkling battery.

Answer 7

Sounds like battery to me but don't just buy a new one Get the old one tested first and the alternator output

A "GOOD" reliable local garage should do that for you and if it's OK they should say so. If knackered they will probably get a new one fitted

Answer 8

Get the battery checked there are lots of garages that will do this for you they will be able to tell you if it is the problem before going to purchase a new one

Answer 9

purchase a new battery. i suggest one with at least 650 cold cranking amps.cold weather will make an older battery lose the ability to start your engine.

Answer 10

Test the battery under load, and replace if it's indicated. Your local parts store should be able to test it for you.