This problem has happened only now and then but recently, more 'now' than 'then.'

Let me say out of the gate, I know nothing of cars so treat me kindly as a noob.

I have an 04 TL with 98K kilometres (61K miles) and has been serviced regularly. Last big service was 1 month ago which included fluids, filters, brakes, etc.

When I go to start the car (say first thing in the morning) the battery tries to turn the engine over but it really struggles. The instrument lights all flicker and blink and - if I am lucky - half the time the engine will finally turnover. Other times, I need to use another battery to boost it.

The longer the car sits, the less likely it will be to successfully turn over. It's kept in an indoor garage (not heated but protected somewhat from the cold). Even today, it's warm, but I had problem's starting.

I checked the battery and it's showing 12.47 volts. After my attempt, 11.4volts. I don't have any other tools to test the amps or CCA.

Does anyone have an idea. I am hoping its the battery (since that's cheapest to fix) - I figure after 5 years maybe it doesn't have the amps to crank.

Guidance is most welcome!!

KF

 

It's probably the battery, no reserve, but take it in and have it tested. It's had a good life in 5 years, but now time for retirement.

 

Seems as though you have a few cells in your battery that have gone bad, and cannot hold a strong enough charge to turn your engine over. Take it to Autozone (if you have one out there) let them do a load test on the battery, sure enough its going to be a bad battery.

 

Hey! Thanks Fulani and Turbonut (sounds like an ABC crime drama). That was it. Picked up a new battery, installed it, and vrooom!

I appreciate the guidance and support.

KF