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Battery light: what it means
The red battery symbol (a box with + and −) means your car's charging system isn't working properly. Despite the name, it's often not the battery itself. It's usually the alternator or drive belt that charges it.
Is it safe to drive?
Pull over and get it checked. Your car is running on battery power only and could stop without warning. Turn off anything you don't need (air con, heated seats, stereo). Many manufacturers advise not to keep driving, so pull over somewhere safe and call us or your roadside assistance.
Common causes
- Failing alternator (the part that charges the battery while you drive)
- Broken, loose or worn drive belt
- Old or faulty battery
- Corroded or loose battery terminals
- Wiring or fuse fault in the charging system
Signs that come with it
- Dim or flickering headlights
- Slow or clicking start
- Squealing noise from the engine (often the belt)
- Other warning lights coming on as the voltage drops
How we fix it
We test the battery, alternator and belt to find out which one has failed, so you don't pay for a new battery when it's really the alternator. You'll get the exact price before any work starts.
Batteries: we supply Century and Hankook batteries (standard, EFB and AGM) for all makes and models, from $150 + GST.
Common questions
How long can I drive with the battery light on?
There's no safe guaranteed time. It depends on your battery's charge and what's switched on, and the car could stop without warning. Pull over somewhere safe rather than pushing on. Don't switch the engine off until you're somewhere safe, as it may not restart.
Will a new battery fix it?
Only if the battery is the problem. If the alternator or belt has failed, a new battery will just go flat again. Testing first saves you money.
Can I jump-start it and keep going?
A jump-start can get the car started, but if the charging system is faulty the battery will run flat again and the car may stop. Get it checked straight away.
Light on? We can check it for you.
Greasy Hands, 48c Diana Drive, Wairau Valley. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm.
Book a check online or call 09 440 9969.
This is general guidance only. Every car is different, so always check your owner's manual. If you're not sure, stop somewhere safe and call us on 09 440 9969.