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Boris Feldman explains that when the battery light comes on, the problem is usually with the electrical charging system.
Have you ever had the experience of driving along peacefully and suddenly the battery light comes on on the dashboard of your car? This is one of those moments when many drivers get confused. alert, with the immediate thought that the battery is about to completely discharge. However, contrary to what most people think, the problem is often not in the battery, but in the car's electrical system.
Understanding the Battery Light Alert
Boris Feldman, automotive expert at CNN Brazil, explains that when the battery light comes on, the issue is usually related to the battery charging or recharging system. “It's paradoxical, but when the battery light comes on, it's not the battery. It's because something in the electrical system responsible for charging or recharging the battery is broken.”, highlights Feldman.
In other words, the warning light indicates that the system that is supposed to keep the battery charged is having problems, not that the battery itself is bad. This system includes parts like the alternator and the belt, which play key roles in generating and distributing electrical energy in the vehicle.
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Possible causes for the battery light to be on
There are several reasons why this alert may appear. Some of the most common causes include:
- Broken Alternator Belt: The alternator belt is a crucial part that drives the alternator and helps keep the battery charged. If this belt breaks, the alternator cannot function properly, and the battery cannot be recharged.
- Faulty Alternator: The alternator is like a generator that recharges the battery while the engine is running. If it fails, the battery stops being charged and begins to drain quickly, activating the warning light on the dashboard.
- Defective Relay: The relay's function is to regulate the current that goes to the battery. If this component fails, the battery may receive an inadequate charge, which also triggers the alert.
What to do if the battery light comes on?
Boris Feldman advises that, although the problem is not an emergency, it is important to take the car to a garage quickly for a proper diagnosis. Ignoring this warning can lead to bigger complications, especially if the problem is with the alternator belt, which in many cars also drives the water pump responsible for cooling the engine. A belt problem can therefore affect the cooling system, and this is a situation that can lead to the engine overheating.
“It’s not urgent, but you have to take the car to the garage quickly,” says the specialist, reinforcing that avoiding the problem can bring even more headaches.
Prevention: The best way
To avoid problems with the electrical system, Feldman highlights the importance of checking that all the lights on the dashboard are on before starting the engine. This can prevent unpleasant surprises if a warning light fails due to poor contact or is burned out. “A tip is: have you ever paid attention before starting the engine, or starting it, to see if they are all on? If one has a poor contact or has burned out, when it needs to be turned on, because it is a warning light, it will not turn on,” warns the expert.
Keeping up to date with preventive maintenance is key to ensuring the safety and proper functioning of your car. Regularly checking the electrical system and the condition of the alternator belt are simple actions that can prevent major concerns and, who knows, save a lot on emergency repairs.
The next time the battery light comes on on your dashboard, remember: the problem probably isn’t with the battery, but with the charging system. Keep an eye on your car’s warning signs and take it to a professional to make sure everything is working as well as possible. With a little care and attention, you can avoid mishaps and keep your mind at the wheel.
