Battery problem

Thomas. PLease. · 17 Nov 2009 at 14:00

Hi there, I was unlucky enough to run out of charge on my battery yesterday which left me a bit stranded when I tried to start my car. Luckily I had my jumpleads so was able to get started again.

Problem is now, the battery doesn't seem able to hold a charge.

But, the electrics in this car haven't always been perfect. If left for more than a week or so the battery would slowly decharge.

I tested the battery before starting it just now, and it was on 12.3v. Which i think is classed as pretty much discharge. I tried to start it and it cranked once and then began clicking.

I then jumped it and it ran fine at a good 14v, then with all lights, heater, stereo etc on, it was still a very good 14v. So I guess that counts the alternator out.

So, I am I just in need of a new battery, or could it be the electrical gremlins affecting the battery?

Also, when I removed the battery if you moved it about you could hear the acid inside sloshing about, is that right? I've never had a battery do that I don't think.

Thanks for any help.

Howard · 17 Nov 2009 at 14:09

The battery's probably just knackered..

Do you hvae to fill it with water?

Thomas. PLease. · 17 Nov 2009 at 14:14

Not sure? how do I tell?

Jez · 17 Nov 2009 at 14:22

Sounds like a duff battery to me, I assume you have given it a jolly good charge with a mains charger? Or are you just relying on the car to charge it?

Thomas. PLease. · 17 Nov 2009 at 14:40

No I have a mains charger as well. I left it on the other day when it felt a bit weak. But its still run out.

VFR_KID · 17 Nov 2009 at 14:42

My girls punto was the exact same, did it for weeks, She couldnt afford a battery so had to jump it. Exact same symptoms. new battery and it was fine.

Thomas. PLease. · 17 Nov 2009 at 15:10

guess i'll look at getting a battery then. Any ideas on where the cheapest place is?

Jez · 17 Nov 2009 at 15:12

Euro car parts, partco, all much of a muchness really.

aproctor · 17 Nov 2009 at 20:20

£60+

tbh buy a decent battery as it's not a regular purchase you may as well get one that will last that bit longer.

BigglesPiP · 17 Nov 2009 at 20:27

It's the battery, a good one showing 12.3V with no load would be able to crank properly.

saitrix · 17 Nov 2009 at 20:53

If you have a Halfords trade card then now is the time to use it, you get about 30-40% off the list price with the card.

Thomas. PLease. · 17 Nov 2009 at 22:10

You can get a trade card if you show them a load of motor factors receipts can't you? Might have to give that a go.

DRZ · 17 Nov 2009 at 22:26

I needed a HUGE battery for my E34 when that gave up the ghost. Halfords wanted £100+ for it. £10 spent in a scrapyard on a tested battery and the problem was sorted. Even if it only lasted 6 months thats 5 years of motoring for the same cost as the £100+ item...