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What should the normal battery voltage be while driving?

My car seems to have less power nowadays and sometimes takes a few tries to start. I suspect my battery might be weak. What voltage should the battery have while the car is running?

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Tiffany Leung · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Sorry to hear of your car troubles!
Your battery should measure 13.7 to 14.7 volts while driving. If it feels like your car has less power than usual, it may be caused by the following:
  • Old battery: Car batteries have an average lifespan of five to six years, depending on your car usage. As the battery degrades, the charge it can hold also decreases.
  • Faulty alternator: The alternator is responsible for charging the battery when the car is running. If the alternator is faulty, it will not be able to convert the mechanical energy into electrical energy to charge the battery.
  • Loose or corroded connector: The connectors from the battery to your car’s electrical system can also wear out or become loose. This results in a poor connection, which causes electrical issues.
It is best to bring your car to a mechanic to inspect the issue as soon as possible. Delaying could lead to more internal damages, which can be costly to fix.
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