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Wired! (Battery Cable Service)

Posted November 9, 2025 1:42 AM

Colder weather brings out the worst in a vehicle's battery.  On a very cold day, you may have experienced that your engine cranks slowly when starting.  But while it may be the battery itself, it may also be the parts that transfer the power to other the other electrical components, the battery cables.  After all, you have to have some way to get the current out of the battery and out to where it needs to go.

Battery cables have a couple of enemies: corrosion and age.  You may have looked under the hood and noticed a light-colored powder or crust around the terminals.  That's what happens when acids corrode the ends of the battery terminals.  Corrosion inhibits the connection and may reduce the amount of power getting to the electrical accessories to the point where they are not working correctly, if at all.

Here are some symptoms of problems with your battery cables. You might notice a clicking sound when you turn the key, some of your vehicle's electrical parts (like the sound system or the horn) don't work or, in some cases, the vehicle won't start at all.

When you take your vehicle to a repair facility, the technician will use instruments to check voltages to see how much current is getting to what location. That includes a starter draw test during which the battery's voltage is checked when the starter is cranked.  The technician will also visually inspect the cables and the charging system. To make sure the alternator is putting out the right voltage, the technician will measure that as well. 

If the problem is found to be the battery cable assembly, the entire set may have to be replaced. Sometimes they can be repaired. 

During the colder months, it's vital that your vehicle has the proper power going to its electrical components.  Having a vehicle that won't start or run smoothly is not something you want to battle with when you're already up against challenging weather.  Keep your electrons flowing… and your vehicle moving.


Ken's Auto Center
9555 Black Mountain Road
San Diego, CA 92126
8585788200



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After many sour experiences—and even betrayal—from other auto shops, I feel compelled to share my heartwarming experience with the amazing, kind, and truly caring team at Ken’s Auto. From the moment I met Todd and Cindi, who run the shop with such grace and warmth, I felt something I had never felt in an auto shop before: ease. Every time I walk through their door, I feel relaxed, knowing I am in good and loving hands. They consistently go above and beyond to make sure I feel seen, valued, and treated with genuine care—a rare gift in this industry. And then there is Mike—the mechanic with a golden heart and golden hands. I have never felt so safe and confident on the road until he began servicing my car. His skill, attention to detail, and integrity have transformed the way I drive. For the first time in years, I feel protected behind the wheel. Everyone at Ken’s Auto operates with warmth, honesty, and integrity—the qualities every human needs and deserves but so rarely receives. After years of running into shops that took advantage of my vulnerability, I can finally say I have found a place of milk and honey—a shop led not just by people with heart, but people who lead with their heart. Every time I step into Ken’s Auto, I know their priority is simple and sincere: to make sure my car is in the best condition so that I am safe on the road. And thanks to them, I drive with trust, comfort, and peace. I urge anyone seeking true care, respect, and honesty for their vehicle to give this incredible team a chance. With full confidence, I guarantee—you will not be disappointed. Lastly, I want to say that their prices are better than any other shop I’ve been to, which only adds to the peace of mind they give me.

, 11/19/2025

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