One of the most annoying things that you can experience is when your car dies while you are in the middle of nowhere. The main reason for this is a problem with the alternator or a dead battery. While everything has a limit; it is also true that there are ways you can prolong it.
A typical car battery can last from 3 to 6 six years. However, there are some external factors that can cut their lifespan. Sadly, most auto batteries die when you are out and about away from home. To avoid this from happening, you need to take good care of your auto battery as much as possible. Below are some ways to keep your auto battery lasting longer.
Avoid short rides
You may think that shorter drives are good for your battery as it gives them more “rest” time. What most of us don’t know is that shorter rides prevent your car’s battery from charging fully; thus, reducing their lifespan. Drive your car more often for long distances or at least about 20 minutes drive so it can recover its energy.
Maintain a neutral temperature for your battery
While your auto battery can withstand various temperatures, extreme temperatures can cause a toll on it. The fluid in your car’s battery may evaporate when the temperature is too hot, which may result in overcharging issues. Extremely cold temperatures, on the other hand, require your battery to use up more power. Aside from that, it can also freeze the battery’s electrolytes leading to a decrease in its lifespan.
Minimize the use of too many accessories while idling
Using electronics and other car accessories while your car is idling will harm your car’s battery, Make sure to turn off everything, including your car’s AC, radio, seat warmers, and others when your car is idling; especially during the winter season. The same thing should go when you are starting your car. Check if everything is turned off before starting the engine.
Prevent corrosion
Corrosion is another enemy of your car’s battery. Clean your battery, especially the battery terminals, regularly to avoid the buildup of dirt and prevent corrosion. Thus, increasing the life of your car’s battery. You can clean the battery terminals by scrubbing it with an unused toothbrush with a mixture of water and baking soda. Rinse it with water and dry it with a cloth.
Don’t forget your car’s routine checkup
One way to take good care of your car is to have it checked and maintained regularly by professional car services. Part of the maintenance is to give your car routine tune ups as well as examining other parts of the car to make sure that it is in its perfect running condition.
Moreover, you can also invest in a car battery maintainer especially if the cold months are coming. Car batteries will lose their power if not unused for too long. A battery maintainer is a great investment to monitor the health of your battery and will automatically adjust its voltage while recharging it.
