* The engine cranks slowly or doesn't crank at all.
* You hear a clicking sound when you turn the key.
* The starter motor is hot to the touch.
* The starter motor is smoking.
Symptoms of a Bad Battery
* The engine cranks slowly or doesn't crank at all.
* The headlights dim when you turn the key.
* The car won't start after you've been driving for a while.
* The battery is old (3-4 years old or more).
How to Diagnose the Problem
If you're not sure whether your starter or battery is bad, you can try a few simple tests.
* First, try jump-starting the car. If the car starts, it's likely that the battery is bad.
* If the car doesn't start, try tapping the starter motor with a hammer. If the car starts, it's likely that the starter motor is bad.
If you're still not sure what the problem is, you should take your car to a mechanic for diagnosis.
