Your car's battery plays an important part in the vehicle's ability to function. Not only does it give the engine its first jolt of electricity to turn the engine over when starting it, but it also operates many of the peripheral systems, such as the headlights and dashboard lights. After the car starts, the alternator recharges the battery to keep it at its top level.

However, if the battery starts to fail, the alternator will not be able to recharge it, and you may find that it loses its charge completely leaving you without a means to start your car. Before this happens, there are a couple of early warning signs you should be on the lookout for that will indicate the need to have a new car battery installed.

1. You Hear Your Car Sputter Slightly Before the Engine Turns Over When Starting It

One of the early warning signs that your car needs a new battery is when you start hearing a slight sputtering before the engine turns over when attempting to start it. When you hear this sound, the engine is trying to draw electricity from the battery, but since it does not have a full charge, the engine will strain to start.

In the beginning, this sputtering sound will be subtle and last only a second or two. However, as the battery loses more of its charge, the noise will become louder and last longer.

2. You Notice the Car's Electronic Accessories Are Slow to Respond When Using Them

Another sign that should give you an early warning that it is time to install a new car battery is when you notice that the electronic accessories are slow to respond when using them. Because these accessories draw their electricity directly from the battery, one that has lost most of its charge will not be able to power them.

For example, when you use your power windows, you will find that they are slow to open or close. Or, when you use the power locks, there will be a delay in their response. You may also find that the dashboard lights are dimmer or start to flicker when using these accessories.

If your car is starting to sputter before the engine turns over and you notice its electronic accessories are slow to respond, your battery may be going bad and needs to be replaced. If so, you should have a professional install the new one to ensure that you get the right one as well as decrease the chances of installing it incorrectly and damaging the electrical system. Take your car to an automotive shop that offers car battery installation services to have them put a new one in your car for you.