How Do I Know If A Car Battery Is Dead. If the voltage is closer to 12 Volts or less the alternator is not charging the battery and the battery is likely OK. Attach the positive end of the voltmeter to the positive lead from the battery and the negative lead from the voltmeter to the negative lead from the battery red to red black to black.

Learning to recognize problems in your car is an acquired skillit takes time and practice. One indication that the car battery is dead is when the battery cannot read beyond 105 when fully charged. In modern vehicles there is a clear indicator light on your dashboard that will notify you when your alternator is having issues.
Attach the red cable clamp to the positive battery terminal of the dead battery.
You can open the hood and look at your battery cables to check for a white buildup or leaking fluid right away. One indication that the car battery is dead is when the battery cannot read beyond 105 when fully charged. Common symptoms of a dead. How to Tell if a Car Battery is Dead.

