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Battery Health 101: How to Extend Your Car’s Battery Life and Prevent Breakdowns

The battery of the car is a very important part. It helps to start the car. The car cannot run without the battery. Therefore, it is important to take care of the battery. A good battery makes the car run for a long time. Sometimes the battery gets damaged. Then the car stops working. This is a matter of great trouble. But don’t worry. We will tell you how to take care of the battery.

Battery care is easy. By taking care of some small things, you can make the battery run for a long time. This will also save you money. And the car will also run well. Let’s get started. We will see how you can make your car battery last longer and also learn how to avoid car shutdowns.

 

Understanding Car Batteries

A car battery is a large container. It stores electricity. When we start the car, it gives electricity. The car engine starts from the battery. Lights and radio also run on the battery.

How does a battery work?

A battery has many small cells. These cells convert chemical energy into electricity. When the car runs, the alternator charges the battery. This keeps the battery always ready.

How long does a battery last?

A good battery lasts for 3 to 5 years. But this depends on how much care you take of it. Batteries deteriorate quickly in hot places. Battery lasts longer in cold areas.

Types of batteries

Two types of batteries are used in cars. One is lead-acid battery and the other is AGM battery. Lead-acid battery is cheaper. AGM battery is expensive, but lasts longer.

 

Signs of a Weak Battery

Signs of a weak battery

Sometimes the battery becomes weak. In such a situation, some signs are visible. It is important to recognize these signs. With this you can take care of the battery in time.

Car lights becoming dim

If your car lights become dim, then this is a sign of a weak battery. Look at the headlights and dashboard lights. If they are not as bright as before, then get the battery checked.

Car engine starting late

When the battery is weak, the car engine does not start quickly. You may have to turn the key several times. If this happens, then it may be a battery problem.

Strange noises

Sometimes strange noises come from a weak battery. It could be a clicking sound. This happens when the battery does not have enough power.

Electrical Problems

If your car window opens slowly or the radio suddenly turns off, it could be a battery problem. All these things run on the battery.

Battery light blinking

There is a battery symbol on the dashboard. If this symbol lights up, it is a sign of a problem with the battery. It should not be ignored.

 

Proper Battery Maintenance

Proper care of the battery

Good care of the battery is important. This makes the battery last longer. There are some easy ways in which you can take care of the battery.

Regular checkup

Check the battery every month. See if there is any dirt or rust. Keep the terminals clean. Make sure the battery is connected properly.

Keep the battery clean

Dust and dirt accumulate on the battery. Keep cleaning it. Clean the battery with an old toothbrush and baking soda solution. Then wash it with water.

Check the water level

Some batteries require water to be added. Keep checking the water level in such batteries. If it is low, add distilled water. Do not add too much water.

Keep the connections tight

The connections of the battery should not be loose. Check them from time to time. If they are loose, tighten them. Loose connections cause the battery to deteriorate quickly.

Keep the battery charged

Drive the car regularly. Do not park the car for a long time. This discharges the battery. If you cannot drive the car, use a battery charger.

 

Avoiding Common Battery Killers

Common mistakes that damage the battery

There are some habits that damage the battery quickly. You can increase the life of the battery by avoiding these habits.

Do not leave the lights on

Turn off the lights while getting out of the car. If the lights are left on, the battery will be drained. Then the car will not start in the morning.

Do not drive the car for short journeys

Do not drive the car for very short journeys. This does not allow the battery to charge completely. If possible, travel on foot or by bicycle.

Protect from heat

Heat is the biggest enemy of the battery. As far as possible, park the car in the shade. Heat damages the battery quickly.

Do not run too many electronic devices

Do not run too many electronic devices simultaneously in the car. This puts pressure on the battery. Remove the charger and other devices when not needed.

Replace the old battery

When the battery gets old, replace it. An old battery can cause the car to stop suddenly. This can be dangerous.

 

Charging Your Battery

Charging the battery

Sometimes the battery needs to be charged separately. This work should be done carefully. Charging in the wrong way can damage the battery.

Use the right charger

Always use the right charger. Using the wrong charger can damage the battery. Buy a charger suitable for your car battery.

Charging rules

Follow some rules while charging. Charge the battery in an open space. Do not smoke. Connect the charger to the battery first, then to the electrical socket.

Slow charging is better

Slow charging is better. Fast charging can heat up the battery. This reduces the life of the battery.

Avoid overcharging

Do not charge the battery more than necessary. Remove the charger when the battery is fully charged. Some chargers turn off automatically.

Jump Starting

If the battery is completely dead, then jump starting can be done. But do this work carefully. Jump starting in the wrong way can damage the battery or the car.

 

When to Replace Your Battery

When to replace the battery

Every battery has a lifespan. After some time the battery has to be replaced. It is important to know when the battery should be replaced.

Age of the battery

Generally a battery lasts for 3 to 5 years. If your battery has reached this age, then think about replacing it.

Repeated problems

If your battery is repeatedly giving problems, then it would be better to replace it. If the car repeatedly shuts down or does not start, then get a new battery installed.

Low voltage

Check the voltage of the battery. The voltage of a normal battery is 12.6 volts. If it is less than 12.4 volts, then the battery has become weak.

Changing the size of the battery

Sometimes the size of the battery changes. It swells. This can be dangerous. Replace such a battery immediately.

Smell

If the battery smells strongly, it is a sign of damage. This smell may be like eggs. Such a battery should be replaced.

Replace according to the weather

Batteries deteriorate faster in hot areas. If you live in a hot place, replace the battery after 3 years. In cold areas, the battery may last a little longer.

 

DIY Battery Maintenance Tips

Battery care tips at home

You can also take care of the battery at home. There are some easy tips that you can do yourself. This will make the battery last longer.

Keep the battery clean

Dust and dirt accumulates on the battery. Keep cleaning it. Clean the battery with an old toothbrush and baking soda solution. Then wash it with water.

Cleaning the terminals

White powder accumulates on the terminals of the battery. It is necessary to clean it. Clean it with a wire brush. Then apply Vaseline. This will prevent rust.

Check the water level

Water has to be added to some batteries. Keep checking the water level in such batteries. If it is low, add distilled water. Do not add too much water.

Keep the connections tight

The connections of the battery should not be loose. Check them from time to time. If they are loose, tighten them. Loose connections damage the battery quickly.

Check the voltage

Check the voltage of the battery with a voltmeter. It should be 12.6 volts. If the battery is low, charge it or get it checked.

 

Emergency Preparedness

Preparation for emergencies

Sometimes the battery suddenly gets damaged. You should be prepared for such times. Always keep some things in the car.

Jumper cables

Always keep jumper cables in the car. With these, you can start your car from another car. Buy good quality cables.

Portable battery charger

Keep a small portable battery charger. This will come in handy in an emergency. With this, you can charge the battery a little.

Torch

Keep a good torch. If the battery gets damaged at night, then this will come in handy. Keep extra batteries along with the battery torch.

Mobile phone charger

Keep a mobile phone charger in the car. If the car stops working, you can ask for help. Keep the phone battery fully charged.

Emergency numbers

Write down some important phone numbers and keep them in the car. These include the numbers of mechanic, towing service and family members.

 

It is very important to take care of the car battery. This will make your car run well for a long time. Keep checking the battery regularly. Keep it clean and Charge on time. Remember, battery care is easy. Just take care of some small things. Drive the car regularly. Do not forget to turn off the lights and other equipment.

If you take care of these things, your battery will last longer. You will not have to change the battery again and again. This will also save you money. Sometimes problems may arise. Be prepared for such times. Keep jumper cables and other necessary items in the car. This will help you deal with any emergency. Remember, a good battery will make your car run well. You will be able to travel long distances without any worries. So, start taking care of your car battery from today itself.

FAQ’s

The battery capacity decreases in cold weather, but it does not get damaged quickly. Actually, heat is more harmful for the battery. There may be a little difficulty in starting the engine in cold weather. So warm up the car and drive it in winter.

It is good to always keep the battery fully charged, but do not overcharge it. In modern cars, the alternator keeps the battery charged at the right level. If you do not drive the car for a long time, charge the battery occasionally.

If you do not drive the car for a long time, start the engine for 15-20 minutes once a week. Or disconnect the battery. You can also use a battery maintainer which will keep charging the battery slowly.

Yes, old batteries must be recycled. Car batteries contain many harmful substances. Do not throw them away. Deposit them at an authorized recycling center. From there they are recycled safely.

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