Car batteries are an essential part of an automobile. From
getting your car started to charging your phone on-the-go, batteries provide
the zap your vehicle needs to keep rolling. That’s why it’s so important to
know when to start considering a car battery change, as well as what you can do
to extend its lifespan.
1. Limit Short Rides
Quick car rides prevent your car’s battery from fully
charging. Maintain your car’s battery power by driving it frequently and for
extended periods.[2] If you don’t use your car often, consider investing in a
portable car battery charger. These portable chargers can jump start your
battery without another vehicle in case you’re ever stranded.
2. Keep Your Battery Tightly Fastened
A battery that’s not securely fastened could vibrate,
potentially resulting in internal damage and short circuits. Have your battery
terminal checked regularly – especially if you frequently drive on bumpy roads
– to ensure it is tightly and properly positioned in the mounting bracket.
3. Turn Off All the Lights When You Exit
Accidentally keeping your headlights and car door lights on
can put a heavy toll on your vehicle’s battery.[2] To keep yourself from
forgetting, post a note on your dashboard, attach a sticker reminder on your
car remote or park in a direction where you must walk past your headlights to
get to your destination.
4. Control the Corrosion
Battery terminals corrode over time but keeping them clean
from build-up is a great way to extend the life of your car battery. Scrub the
terminals with a toothbrush dipped in a baking soda and water mixture. Then,
using a spray bottle with cold water, rinse the mixture off and follow up with
a thorough drying with a clean cloth.
5. Test Your Battery Often
Knowing the condition of your car battery matters when you
want to maximize its life. Test your battery’s output voltage level with a car
battery tester to keep track of how well you’re maintaining it and if you’re
due for a new one.
6. Don’t Use Electronics While Idling
Turn off functions like the radio or air conditioner when
your engine isn’t running to put less wear and tear on your battery power.
Extended periods of idling also can wear a battery down.
7. Care for Your Whole Car
Your car is comprised of many parts working together. Making
sure you are taking your car in for routine tune ups, as well as properly
storing your vehicle are also simple ways to ensure your battery’s lifespan can
reach its full capacity. The battery is just one component of a well-running
car, so make sure to properly maintain all parts of your car to extend its life
and the life of your battery.
No matter how well you maintain your car battery, you can’t
always foresee when it may die. Learn more about roadside assistance and how it
can help you in the event of an emergency.