If you have a wet sell battery then you can use a hydrometer to check the condition of the cells. This is a simple and effective way to do some self diagnosis check and a hydrometer is very inexpensive to buy. Batteries have a specific gravity that corresponds with the health of the battery. By inserting the tubular sample end of the hydrometer into the battery fluid, taking a sample into the clear casing. Most hydrometers have a red or green section on them, and the important aspect to note is that it is sitting in the green. If it is below the green section then the battery could be starting on its way out, though the batteries life could be extended by topping up the battery cells, before placing it on a long slow low amperage charge to recondition the battery.
Sealed batteries are not as easy to check. Most auto electricians will have a load tester, which applies a heavy load to the battery. Measuring the voltage as the load is maintained, if the battery casing has swelled, it has been discharged extensively, hasn’t had a top up charge for a long time or it has been boiled dry, then your safest and only option is to replace it.
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