How to React When the Battery Light Is On
Follow these tips to get home safely when you car is in need of instant repair.
Up next in Driving & Car Safety (28 videos)
Stay safe on the road with the important information in this car and driver video series.
You Will Need
- The vehicle owner's manual
- An auto repair garage (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Don't panic
Do not panic.
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Step 2
Keep driving
Keep driving as normal, following all highway safety laws and regulations.
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Step 3
Preserve the battery
Turn off all unnecessary lights, air conditioning, and the radio.
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Step 4
Drive to a safe place
If you are on the highway, pull off as soon as possible. Drive the vehicle home or to another safe destination close by.
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Drive to an auto repair garage. They will be able to determine the problem.
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Step 5
Keep the engine running
Keep the engine running after you place the vehicle in park. It takes more energy to restart a car than to let it idle.
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Step 6
Read the manual
Read the vehicle owner's manual to determine possible causes. Battery lights can indicate problems with voltage, water levels, belts, and alternators.
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The Galvin Manufacturing Corporation introduced one of the first car radios in the 1930s.
