An average car battery runs for 3 to 5 years. However, many people end up replacing it every 2 years.
Why is that?
Yes, you are not maintaining your car battery right. Or you drive in a way that is leading to excessive battery drainage.
So, what do you need to do about it?
Well, follow these tips to ensure extended battery life.
But, before moving on to them, know that heat is the most impactful factor that leads to high battery drainage. Thus, when your engine runs hot after a long drive, you will find a significant dip in the car’s battery level.
For the same reason, car batteries in considerably colder regions like Batteries in Oxford have a longer lifespan than in warmer ones.
Now, over to those tips!
#1: Avoid Taking Short Rides
Your car battery charges when the engine is running. Shorter rides leave it with an incomplete charge. Its power needs to be maintained. Hence, it is advisable to take longer trips. Avoid taking your car if you have to go somewhere right down the street, for example.
#2: Fasten the Battery Tight
If your car battery’s lid is not fixed tightly, it will be susceptible to vibrations along with the moving car. The regular vibrations may lead to wire damages and eventually, a short circuit.
#3: Do Not Leave The Lights On
Keeping the headlights or the cabin lights on after you stopped the engine will only drain the battery without any further charge. It may affect the long-term performance of the cells. So, whenever you exit the car, make sure to keep the lights off.
#4: Clean Any Corrosion On The Battery Terminals
Check for a greenish build-up on the battery terminals. The corrosion needs cleaning now and then. You can scrub it off with a brush dipped in a mixture of water and baking soda. Follow it up with a thorough rinsing and drying. If you are unable to clean the corrosion, go for a Battery Repair Bicester.
#5: Perform A Regular Test On Your Battery
You need to keep a tab on how your battery is performing. Check its output voltage from time to time to see if it needs a replacement. In that case, you can take it to garages like Phillips Tyres.
#6: Avoid Using Electronics In The Idle Car
If you use your air conditioner or radio when the car is sitting idle, you are your car battery no favour. Battery usage when the engine is not running can cause a more than average draining of the cell, hence reducing its life.
#7: An Insulation Cover For Extreme Weather Changes!
An extreme weather change severely affects a car battery’s life. An insulator made up of thermal or acid resistant material will ensure the effects of temperature change do not reflect on your car battery.
No matter how much care you take to preserve your battery, it comes with a shelf life that is going to decide how long it lasts. However, efforts that can prolong its use are worth a try.