Extend the Life of Your Car Battery With These 10 Tips

Batteries are designed to last for about three to five years, but many factors can shorten their life. As a motorist, the last thing you want is to be stuck out of nowhere due to a dead battery. Yet, so many people find themselves in this situation. To help you avoid this, follow these 10 tips to keep your car battery running longer.

Avoid Driving Short Trips

Most drivers don’t get why short distance driving can be bad for their batteries. When you make short trips, your battery is not able to recharge the way it should. A drive of more than 20 minutes will help your battery fully charge and last longer. So, the next time you have to run an errand or get something from the store, consider taking a longer route.

Keep Your Battery Clean

A buildup of corrosion on the terminals can weaken the battery and reduce its capacity to hold charges. You want to make it a habit of cleaning your battery terminals on a regular basis with baking soda and water. Baking soda helps to neutralize acid and will help keep corrosion from forming and loosen the corrosion. Water cleans the terminals and helps to flush out any debris that may have built up. Do this twice a year and your battery will thank you for it.

Check Charging System

Your car’s charging system is responsible for keeping the battery charged. If this system isn’t working correctly, it could lead to a dead battery much sooner than expected. Have your mechanic check your car’s charging system if you’re not sure how it’s working or if it needs any attention.

Check Battery Cables

The cables that connect your battery to the car are responsible for supplying power to the electrical system in your car as well as charging it. If these cables become loose or have any corrosion on them, it can lead to a dead battery. Sometimes you’ll need to clean, cut, or replace them entirely. Make sure to check your cables regularly and have them replaced if needed.

Turn Off Electronics

Leaving lights, radio, or other electronics on when your car is turned off can drain the battery quickly. Even small amounts of electricity add up over time and can be detrimental to the life of the battery. The best thing to do is turn off all electronics when the car isn’t in use. Try to remember to turn off all electronics before turning off the car.

Fasten the Battery in Its Place

Once you have a battery, it’s important to make sure that it is properly secured in its place. If the battery isn’t fastened securely, it can cause shocks and vibrations to occur which can lead to an early death for the battery. Make sure the cables are properly fastened and there aren’t any loose parts that could cause harm. The battery should also be placed away from any extreme temperatures or vibrations.

Minimize Exposure to Heat

There’s a common myth among motorists that winter is responsible for the death of car batteries. This isn’t entirely true as it’s the summertime heat that catches up to them. Heat is one of the leading causes of battery deterioration, so try to keep your car out of direct sunlight and away from other sources of intense heat like heaters. Now that summer is in full swing, make sure you find a shady spot to park your car at all times.

Don’t Leave Your Car Unused for a Long Period of Time

The last thing you want to do is leave your car unused for days on end. A flooded lead acid battery can lose up to 1% of its charge each day if left at room temperature, so if you’re planning on going away for a while, make sure your car is plugged into a trickle charger. This will help to maintain the life of your battery and ensure that it’s ready to start when you return.

Replace the Battery at the Appropriate Time

If all else fails, it might be time to replace your battery. Batteries can last anywhere from three to five years, so if you notice that your car isn’t starting as consistently or easily as before, it’s probably time for a new one. You should also be mindful of the age of your battery and check on its condition every few months.

Maintain Regular Servicing for Your Car

Having your car regularly serviced is important for keeping all the systems in check, including the battery. During a service, technicians will inspect and replace worn parts as needed to keep your car running properly. This includes checking and cleaning the battery terminals, replacing corroded cables, and ensuring the charging system is working properly.

Reach Out to Eastern Shore Hyundai to Service Your Car

Your car’s battery is essential for its proper functioning, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. The service team at Eastern Shore Hyundai can help you maintain your battery and prevent any issues before they arise. With our experienced technicians and quality parts, you can be sure that your car will stay running smoothly for years to come. Contact us today to set up an appointment!