Branch 1
Antwerpen / Merksem
Bredabaan 1052170 Merksem
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:30 Sat 10:00–17:00
Warning lights and starting
Battery light on while driving
The battery light usually does not point to the battery itself but to the charging system: the car is no longer topping up the battery enough. From then on the car runs on the reserve in the battery, which is limited.
Recognisable signs
What you may notice.
- A red battery symbol stays on or flickers while you drive
- The lights, wipers or dashboard work more weakly or erratically
- The stop-start system or other electronics no longer respond normally
- Sometimes: a squealing noise from the drive belt, or steering that feels heavier
- The car is hard to start next time, or won’t start at all
Possible causes
What may be behind it.
These are possibilities, not a diagnosis. A technician identifies which cause fits your car after checking it.
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The alternator is not charging enough
The alternator supplies the power while the engine is running. If it is worn or faulty, the battery slowly runs down.
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The drive belt
A loose, worn or broken drive belt can stop the alternator working. Sometimes you hear a squealing noise, and other assistance can drop out too.
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A poor electrical connection
Loose or corroded terminals, earth leads or wiring can disrupt charging.
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A worn battery
A battery that is losing capacity can throw the system out of balance. The best way to find out is with a test.
Keep driving?
Can I keep driving with this?
For a short trip to a garage you can sometimes keep going, as long as the battery still has power. Switch off anything you do not need, such as heated windows or a loud stereo. If more fails on the way, the steering gets heavy or the temperature climbs, stop safely and arrange help.
Check soonHave this checked soon
At WeFix
What WeFix can check.
This is what our technicians can look at to find the cause.
- Testing the battery and measuring the voltage while the engine is running
- Checking the alternator and the charging system
- Inspecting the drive belt and tensioner
- Checking cables, terminals and earth connections
If we find something, you hear it first. We only repair after your approval.
Services
Related services.
This is where WeFix Auto’s can help with this symptom.
Branches
Call or drop by.
Not sure, or is it urgent? Call the branch near you and describe what you notice.
2170 Merksem
Branch 2
Brasschaat
Bredabaan 7372930 Brasschaat
Mon–Fri 08:30–18:00 Sat 09:00–12:00
Also read
Related problems.
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Car won’t start: battery, starter motor or alternator?
A car that won’t start usually has a problem with the electrical supply, the starter motor, or the fuel and ignition system. What you hear and see when you try to start it often gives a first clue, but you only get certainty after a test. Read the explanation -
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Check engine light on: what does it mean and can you keep driving?
The check engine light tells you that the car’s computer has detected a fault in the engine, the exhaust or the fuel supply. The light does not say exactly what is wrong: that takes a diagnostic read-out and a proper check. If it stays on constantly, have it looked at soon. If it flashes, extra care is needed. Read the explanation -
Stop safely
Engine running too hot: what does a rising temperature mean?
If the temperature gauge climbs towards the red zone or a warning appears, the engine may be overheating. That can cause serious damage within a short time. The cause usually lies in the cooling system, but which part is at fault has to be investigated. Read the explanation
Have your car checked.
Request a no-obligation quote or call a branch. You hear what we find first.
Please note: This explanation is general information and does not replace a technical diagnosis. The cause can only be established after your car has been checked. If you are worried about your safety, stop and ask for professional help.