Techniques to Extend Your Car Batteries Life

Jumping Dead Car Battery Utilizing proper battery care saves you from this.

When your car battery is working properly, it can be easy to forget about maintaining it. However, giving car batteries regular attention will help them last longer and can save you money in the long term. It is especially important to maintain car batteries during the winter months because colder temperatures cause them to work harder. There are four parts that you will need to maintain to help prevent battery failure, which include adding water and assessing the alternator as well as cleaning the battery case and clamps.

Water Care

Your car battery requires water to function properly. When the weather is hot, be sure to check the water supply each month. During your water reviews, assess the liquid levels through the vent cap opening, and if it is lower than the gauge, then fill it with regular water. If you notice the battery’s water levels are frequently low, then you may consider asking your mechanic to locate the source of the problem. For instance, the battery may have a short in the electrical system or alternator issues.

Battery Case

The battery case requires care as it is an essential protection element for your car’s battery. As the container and terminals become covered with moisture, dirt and grease, the grime can cause the battery’s electricity to seep out of the case. To clean the container, use a slow stream of water. However, be sure to avoid the case’s vent holes. You can also use a stiff wire brush to get rid of the battery case’s corrosion. Furthermore, a cloth dipped in a baking soda mixture is ideal for scrubbing the exterior of the case, and the solution will neutralize the battery’s acid. Be sure to clean the vent caps. However, avoid splashing water or the baking soda mixture into the terminals and the cells.

Cable Clamps

If your car battery’s cable clamps become corroded, then the decomposition can cause the battery to fail. Specifically, the corrosion triggers failure by preventing a power connection. When corrosion is permitted to remain on the clamp, it can eat through the mechanism and set off a complete power failure. You can remove clamp corrosion with water and a wire brush. After it is clean, you should coat the clamps with a lubricant such as petroleum, Vaseline or silicone. If the clamp has too much damage for cleaning, then you can replace the device.

Alternator Belt

The alternator belt may begin to stretch, which will cause it to slip. When slippage occurs, the alternator is unable to produce the standard amount of electricity to recharge the car battery. Be sure to ask your mechanic to review the belt when you take your vehicle in for servicing or a tune-up.

Loss of Power

Keep an eye on your car, and if you notice that your vehicle’s lights are dim or that your car is starting more slowly than usual, then have a car service member check your battery’s condition. He or she will inspect the battery by assessing the cells to make sure that they have a full charge.When you properly maintain your car’s battery, you will likely extend the unit's longevity and prevent inconvenient failures.