When it comes to battery cables, most people think they are not very important. After all, they are just cables, right?
Wrong! Battery cables play a very important role in your vehicle’s electrical system. They connect the battery to the rest of the car and allow electricity to flow where it needs to go.
When the battery cables are bad, the most common symptom is that the car will not start. Other symptoms include the car stalling, the headlights dimming, and the radio cutting out.
If your battery cables are bad, it can cause all sorts of problems with your car. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of bad battery cables and how to prevent and fix them.
Table of Contents
What are Battery Cables?
Battery cables are the thick, high-gauge wires that connect your car’s battery to the starter. One is the positive (+) cable, which has a red insulation jacket. The other cable is the negative (-) cable, which has a black insulation jacket.
These cables carry large amounts of electrical current and are very important to the proper operation of your car’s electrical system.
Battery cables are usually made up of two smaller gauge wires twisted or braided together. The gauge and number of wires will vary depending on the application. For example, a car with a small engine may have smaller battery cables than a car with a large engine.
The battery cables in your car supply electrical current to the starter motor. When you turn the key to start your car, the starter motor draws a large amount of current from the battery.
The battery cables in your car are also responsible for supplying electrical current to the rest of the electrical system when the engine is running. The alternator charges the battery while the engine is running and provides power to the electrical system.
Battery cables are a very important part of your car’s electrical system and should be checked regularly for damage or corrosion. If you notice any damage or corrosion on your battery cables, they should be replaced as soon as possible.
What are the Symptoms of a Bad Battery Cable?
If you have a bad battery cable, look out for these symptoms:
- Car Won’t Start
- Negative Battery Cable Hot
- Corroded Battery Terminal or Cable
- Flickering Headlights
- Visual Damage to Cables
- Low Voltage Car Battery
- Electrical Components Losing Power
- Dead Battery
- Engine Stalls and Poor Performance
These are all signs that your battery cables are not working properly and need to be replaced. Now, let us take a closer look at each symptom in more detail.
1. Car Won’t Start:
If you turn the key and your car won’t start, it could be because of a bad battery cable. The starter motor needs a large amount of current to turn the engine over, and if the battery cables are not supplying enough current, the starter motor will not be able to do its job.
Also, if you hear a clicking noise when you turn the key, it could be because of a bad battery cable. The clicking noise is caused by the solenoid in the starter motor not being able to engage the starter gear.
2. Negative Battery Cable Hot:
If you notice that the negative battery cable is hot to the touch, it could be because of a bad connection. The electrical current flowing through the bad negative battery cable can cause it to heat up, and if the connection is not good, the heat will build up and make the cable hot.
A short circuit can also cause a hot negative battery cable. If the insulation on the cable is damaged, it can cause the wires to touch and create a short circuit. This will cause the current to flow through the cable instead of through the electrical system.
The heat from a short circuit can also damage the battery, so if you notice a hot negative battery cable, it is important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
3. Corroded Battery Terminals or Cables:
Another symptom of a bad battery cable is corrosion on the battery terminals or cables. The electrical current flowing through the battery cables can cause corrosion to build up on the terminals and cables.
Corrosion can also be caused by exposure to water or moisture. If you live in an area with high humidity, it is important to regularly check your battery terminals and cables for corrosion.
If you notice any corrosion on your battery terminals or cables, it is important to clean it off as soon as possible. Corrosion can cause the electrical current to flow erratically, leading to problems with starting the car or running the electrical system.
Cleaning off corrosion is not difficult, but it is important to do it carefully so that
4. Flickering Headlights:
Another symptom of a bad battery cable is flickering headlights. If the electrical current flowing to the headlights is not smooth, it can cause the bulbs to flicker. This can be caused by a bad connection between the battery and the headlight wiring.
The headlights receive a large amount of electrical current when turned on, and if the connection is not good, the current can fluctuate and cause the headlights to flicker.
The headlights may also dim when the car is idling or running at low speeds. This is because the alternator is not providing enough power to the electrical system.
5. Visual Damage to Cables:
If you can see damage to the battery cables, such as cracks or fraying, it indicates that they need to be replaced.
The insulation on the cables can degrade over time, and if it is damaged, it can allow the electrical current to leak out. This can cause problems with starting the car or running the electrical system.
6. Low Voltage Car Battery:
If you notice that your car has a low voltage battery, it could be because of a bad connection between the battery and the cables. You might get a battery discharge warning in this case.
The electrical current flowing through the battery cables can cause a voltage drop, making the battery appear to have a lower voltage than it actually does.
A low voltage car battery can also be caused by corrosion on the terminals or cables. If the corrosion is bad enough, it can cause a complete loss of electrical contact between the battery and the cables.
7. Electrical Components Losing Power:
A very prominent symptom of bad battery cables is electrical components losing power.
For example, if your car stereo starts to cut out or your power windows start to act erratically, it could be because of a bad connection between the battery and the cables.
This happens because the electrical current flowing through the cables is not smooth. This can cause the voltage to drop, making the electrical components lose power.
Although issues with other components such as a failing alternator can also cause this symptom, it is important to have the battery cables checked if you notice any problems with electrical components losing power.
8. Dead Battery:
A dead battery is one of the most obvious symptoms of bad battery cables. A bad battery can also cause limp mode.
If the electrical current is not flowing through the battery cables, it can cause the battery to discharge and eventually die.
This can happen for several reasons, such as a loose connection between the battery and the cables or corrosion on the terminals or cables.
If you have ended up with a dead battery, it is important to have the battery cables checked before you try to jump-start the car.
9. Engine Stalls and Poor Performance:
A very serious symptom of bad battery cables is engine stalls and poor performance. If the electrical current flowing to the engine is not smooth, it can cause the engine to stall or rough idling.
This is because the battery is responsible for providing the electrical power needed to run the engine. If the battery cables are damaged or not functioning properly, they can disrupt this process and cause various problems.
For example, the current used by spark plugs to ignite the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders comes from the battery. If the cables are damaged, this current may be interrupted, causing the engine to stall.
In addition, all of the engine’s accessories, such as the fuel pump and alternator, rely on electrical power from the battery. If these components are not getting enough power, they can also cause problems that lead to stalling.
In short, bad battery cables can cause a host of engine performance problems, including stalling. That’s why it’s important to ensure they are in good condition and working properly.
What Causes Battery Cables to go Bad?
Now that we’ve gone over some of the symptoms of bad battery cables, you might be wondering what causes them to go bad in the first place.
Aging:
One of the most common causes of bad battery cables is aging. Over time, the cables can become brittle and cracked, allowing the electrical current to leak out.
In addition, the terminals and connectors can become corroded over time, which can also cause problems with the electrical connection.
Undersized Cables:
Using undersized cables is another common cause of bad battery cables. When the electrical current flowing through the cables is high, it can cause the cables to overheat and fail.
This is often caused by using aftermarket components that require more power than the stock components. For example, installing a powerful stereo system or aftermarket lights can put a strain on the electrical system and cause the battery cables to fail.
The cable thickness is usually measured in gauge (AWG). Using too small a cable can cause it to overheat and fail. If you are unsure of what size cables to use, it is always best to consult with a professional.
Environmental Conditions:
Another common cause of bad battery cables is environmental conditions. Extreme cold or heat can cause the cables to become brittle and crack.
In addition, moisture can cause corrosion on the terminals and connectors, disrupting the electrical connection.
Damaged Cables:
Of course, damage to the cables themselves is another major cause of bad battery cables going bad. The most common type of damage is physical damage.
Such as the cables being cut or frayed. This can happen if the car is in an accident or something sharp comes into contact with the cables.
Loose Connections:
Another cause of bad battery cables is loose connections. This can happen if the terminals or connectors become loose over time.
Now, what loose connections do is cause the electrical current to flow erratically. This can lead to all sorts of problems, including a dead battery, engine stalls, and poor performance.
Corroded Terminals:
As we mentioned before, corrosion is another major cause of bad battery cables. Corrosion can happen for several reasons, such as exposure to moisture or chemicals.
When terminals become corroded, it creates a barrier between the cable and the terminal. This barrier can disrupt the flow of electrical current, causing all sorts of problems.
Voltage Drop Test for Bad Battery Cables
One of the best ways to test for bad battery cables is with a voltage drop test. This test is relatively simple and only requires a multimeter. Let’s get started with the process:
1. First, you’ll need to check the available battery voltage.
2. For the normal operation of the electrical system, you should have around 12. If the voltage is anything other than 12, there may be a problem with the battery or the charging system.
3. Set your DVM (Digital Volt Meter) to the 20 volt DC scale.
4. Probe the positive terminal of the battery with the red lead and ground the black lead on the engine block or chassis.
5. Disable the engine and all accessories. All you should have is the key in the accessory position.
6. While cranking the engine, observe the voltage on the DVM.
7. Next up, connect the positive terminal of the DVM with the point where the positive battery cable connects to the starter solenoid.
8. While the negative lead of the DVM is still touching the engine block, have someone crank the engine and record the voltage.
9. Compare the two voltages. If there is more than a 1 V difference between the two readings, then you most likely have a bad battery cable.
If you think you may have a bad battery cable, it’s important to take action immediately. Continuing to drive with bad battery cables can lead to all sorts of problems, including engine
How to Replace Battery Cables?
If your car’s battery cables are frayed or damaged, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible. Not only can this prevent your vehicle from starting, but it can also cause damage to other electrical components.
Replacing battery cables is a relatively simple process you can do yourself with a few tools and supplies.
Before you begin, make sure that you have the following:
- New battery cables
- Wire cutters
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flat head screwdriver
Now with the process:
- Start by disconnecting the negative (-) battery cable. This is usually the black cable connected to the negative battery terminal. Remove it from the terminal.
- Next, disconnect the positive (+) battery cable. This is usually the red cable connected to the positive (+) terminal on the battery. Remove it from the terminal.
- Now the other side of the positive cable should be disconnected. This is usually located on the starter. Remove it from the terminal.
- The final cable to disconnect is the ground cable. This is connected to the car’s chassis and needs to be removed to avoid any electrical shorts.
- With all the cables disconnected, you can now remove the old battery cables from the car. Start by removing the retaining nuts that hold the cables in place.
- You may need a Phillips head screwdriver or a flat head screwdriver to loosen these nuts.
- Once the retaining nuts are removed, you can pull the old battery cables out of their respective terminals.
- Now it’s time to install the new battery cables. Start by connecting the ground cable to the chassis of the car.
- Next, connect one end of the positive (+) cable to the positive terminal on the battery.
- Then connect the other end of the positive cable to the starter.
- Finally, connect one end of the negative (-) cable to the negative terminal on the battery.
- Tighten all the retaining nuts to secure the new battery cables.
- Once all the cables are tightened, you can test your work by starting the car. If it starts without any issues, you’ve successfully replaced your battery cables!
Battery Cables Replacement Costs
The cost to replace your car’s battery cables will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. On average, you can expect to pay between $30 and $60 for a new set of battery cables. However, some luxury vehicles can cost upwards of $100 or more.
Battery cables are not a one-size-fits-all part, so it’s important to get the right ones for your car. When buying replacement battery cables, ensure they are the same thickness as the originals.
You can usually find this information in your owner’s manual or the car’s fuse box cover. If you are having difficulty finding the right size battery cables, ask a salesperson at an auto parts store for help.
They should be able to tell you what size you need based on the make and model of your car.
Conclusion
The most common symptom of bad battery cables is a slow cranking engine. This happens because the electrical current cannot flow through the cable properly, causing the engine to take longer to start.
Bad battery cables can cause all sorts of problems for your car. From preventing it from starting to damage other electrical components, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible.
Preventing bad battery cables is relatively simple. Just be sure to regularly inspect them for wear and tear and replace them if necessary. You should also avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, which can cause them to deteriorate faster.
We hope this guide has helped you better understand the symptoms, causes, prevention, and replacement of bad battery cables in cars!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a bad battery cable drain battery?
Yes, a bad battery cable can indeed drain your battery. If the cable is not properly insulated or if it is damaged in any way, it can create a small electrical current that will slowly drain your battery over time.
If you notice that your battery isn’t holding a charge as well as it used to, or if it seems to be draining more quickly than normal, then it’s a good idea to check your cables for any damage.
How often do battery cables need to be replaced?
It depends. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions (e.g., extreme cold or heat), your battery cables may need to be replaced more frequently.
Cables regularly exposed to salt (such as road salt during the winter) will also need to be replaced more often.
In general, you must replace your battery cable every 50,000 to 60,000 miles. This will ensure that your car is always able to start and that a faulty cable does not damage other electrical components.
How do you tell if your battery connectors are bad?
If your battery terminals or connectors are corroded, you can tell by the build-up of white, green, or blue powder on the metal.
This corrosion is caused by a chemical reaction between the metal and the acid in the battery. It can prevent electrical current from flowing freely between the battery and your car.
Corroded battery terminals can also make it difficult to start your car or cause your car’s electrical system to malfunction.
How do you differentiate between a positive and a negative battery cable?
One way to differentiate between a positive battery cable and a negative one is by looking at the color of the insulation. The positive battery cable will typically have red insulation, while the negative battery cable will typically have black insulation.
Another way to differentiate between the two is by looking at the markings on the cables themselves. Positive battery cables will typically be marked with a plus sign (+), while negative battery cables will typically be marked with a minus sign (-).
In terms of function, the positive battery cable is responsible for carrying the electrical current from the battery to the starter. In contrast, the negative battery cable is responsible for grounding the electrical system.
Can you jump-start a car with bad battery cables?
The answer is yes; you can jump-start a car with bad battery cables. However, it is not recommended as it will not do you any good in the longer run.
You might be able to bypass the battery cables by using a set of jumper cables, but as you continue driving, the downsides of having bad battery cables will start to show.
The main downside of having bad battery cables is that your car will not be able to hold a charge. This means that you’ll have to jump-start your vehicle every time you want to use it, which can be extremely frustrating.
So, while you can technically jump-start a car with bad battery cables, it’s not something we recommend. If your battery cables are in bad shape, it’s best to replace them as soon as possible to avoid any potential problems down the road.
