Most car batteries last between four and six years. However, you can extend the life of your battery with some simple steps. Learn what you can do to prevent future battery issues.
Clean the Battery
To start, make sure to regularly clean your battery. Specifically, look for corrosion that appears like a white powder by the clamps or nodes. To clean the clamps, use a nonmetallic brush, baking soda, and water.
If you spot corrosion, then your battery may be too old, so you will likely need to replace it. Luckily, regular cleaning can prevent corrosion.
Test the Battery
Don’t just hope that your car battery lasts. Instead, take the time to test it semi-regularly. If you don’t want to do this yourself, have your service center do so.
To test the battery, you want to test the electrolytes in each cell. To start, squeeze the ball to draw the liquid into your tester, and then record the level of the tester. After that, return the solution to the cell.
As you test, remember that they assume your battery is 80 degrees. For every 10 degrees of temperature difference in your battery, add or subtract 0.4. You want all of the cells to have readings within 0.5 of each other. Otherwise, take your car to your mechanic.
Drive Long Distances Regularly
While you don’t have to drive for hours on end, make it a point to drive longer distances. This is because car batteries recharge when you drive a longer distance. They typically need about eight hours for a full charge.
By contrast, if you drive short distances, it is hard on your battery. Specifically, it can create crystalline deposits on your negative plates. This can prevent proper charging.
Pay Attention to the Temperature
Your battery does best in neutral temperatures. If it is too hot out, the battery fluid may evaporate. On the other hand, if it is too cold, the battery can self-discharge, or its electrolytes may freeze.
So, if you can, keep your car at a neutral temperature. For example, park it in a garage.
Get a Battery Maintainer
If you don’t drive your car for a few months at a time, get a battery maintainer. These monitor your battery’s voltage. Then, they charge your battery at the right time. This prevents undercharging and overcharging.
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Let Limbaugh Toyota Take Care of Your Car’s Battery
If you want some help caring for your battery, head to Limbaugh Toyota in Birmingham, Alabama. Our service center is here to assist you. Thinking about an upgrade? Then, our sales team can help you find your next car or take one on a test drive.
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