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Blog - Signs INFINITI Battery Has Bad Ground


June 24, 2021

8 Signs Your INFINITI's Battery Has a Bad Ground

“Bad ground” sounds like the name of a strong brand of coffee or the title of a cheesy horror movie. But when it comes to your INFINITI's battery, a bad ground is much more serious.

Simply put, a bad ground can cause electrical problems with your INFINITI's battery. Ride along as we educate you about this electrical issue, and learn the eight signs that your INFINITI's battery may have a bad ground.

What Is a Ground Strap?

The ground strap is a key component of your INFINITI's electrical system. This black strap, also known as a ground cable, ground wire or negative battery cable, links the engine block to the chassis or the negative battery terminal. The engine block and chassis are two of the workhorses of your INFINITI's electrical system.

When your INFINITI has a bad ground strap, it can lead to all sorts of complications with the electrical system. These complications can affect parts of your INFINITI like the alternator, ignition system, or starter motor.

What Are the Signs of a Bad Ground?

While your INFINITI's electrical system can be a bit complex, it's fairly easy to figure out when your INFINITI has a bad ground. These signs include:

  1. Flickering lights. In some cases, the cause of flickering or dimming lights may be as simple as a loose ground strap. But if the ground strap is worn out, flickering or dimming lights may persist until the ground strap is replaced.
  2. Low battery voltage. A faulty ground strap may trigger a battery reading under 11.5 volts. You can test the voltage of your INFINITI's battery with a multimeter to see whether it's above or below 11.5. A fully charged battery will have 12.6 volts displayed on a multimeter.
  3. Dead battery. You may assume that when a battery is dead, the problem is with the battery. However, if your INFINITI has a bad ground, it may mean your battery can't maintain a charge. A loose ground strap can also cause a dead battery.
  4. Stubborn start. Having trouble starting your INFINITI? If so, a bad ground could be the culprit.
  5. Faulty fuel pump. When your INFINITI's fuel pump isn't doing its job properly, a bad ground may be the source of the problem.
  6. Damaged ground strap. If you take a look at the ground strap and it appears to be damaged or worn out, it's time to replace the strap.
  7. Illuminated check engine light. When the check engine light goes on, it could be a signal that you've got a bad ground.
  8. Noisy audio system. Your INFINITI's audio system relies on power. So if something is wrong with the ground, then it may produce strange sounds from your audio system.

How to Tell if Something Is Wrong With the Ground Strap

Taking care of a bad ground typically requires a visit to an authorized INFINITI service center for professional assistance. Here's how to determine whether you've got a bad ground and when it's time to see your local INFINITI service professional:

  • Crank the engine a couple of times.
  • Let the engine run.
  • Check whether the negative battery terminal or the bolt attached to the body is producing heat. Make sure you don't injure yourself when getting close to the terminal or bolt. If heat is being generated, it's very likely that the ground strap needs to be replaced.

Don't let a bad ground cause unnecessary issues for your INFINITI. Shop INFINITI Parts online to purchase genuine battery replacement parts. Install them yourself or head to your local authorized INFINITI service center for professional installation.

Shop INFINITI Battery Parts Shop INFINITI Electrical Parts Shop All INFINITI Parts

Material in this article is for general information purposes only and was accurate as of the date of first publication. Information is subject to change and does not constitute an offer, representation or warranty (express or implied) by Nissan North America, Inc. ("Company"). Interested parties should confirm the accuracy of any information in this website as it relates to a vehicle directly with Company before relying on it to make a purchase decision. Unless expressly referenced, Company does not endorse and is not affiliated with any company that might be mentioned in this article. Company is not responsible or liable for the availability of links to websites or resources, or for any content, advertising, products, services, privacy policies, or other materials on or available through these websites or resources, or for your reliance thereon. Any references to data or products are subject to change without notice. Trademarks are property of their respective owners.

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