In this article you will learn the basics of your car battery and how to maintain it.
Your car battery has a lot more responsibility than kicking over the engine. It is responsible for providing the engine with starting power but also stabilises the voltage to keep the engine running smoothly. In other words, a well maintained car battery is a must for every vehicle.
So, how well do you know your car battery? Here, we look at some simple ways in which you can monitor and maintain your car battery to keep your car running smoothly.
What is the lifespan of a standard car battery?
How long your car battery will last is dependent on a number of factors, including:
- The age of the battery: a car battery will typically last for 3 to 5 years.
- Use: to preserve battery life, turn your car engine off when not in use. This will help to preserve battery life. It is also important to drive your car regularly to avoid getting a flat battery as the battery only charges when the engine is running.
- Weather/environmental conditions: did you know that heat can cause damage to your car battery? Damage is caused as a result of water loss and heat distortion.
Tips on getting the most from your car battery
Through proper maintenance, you can reduce the general wear to your car battery. This includes:
Regular vehicle servicing
When you stick to your recommended vehicle servicing schedule (which you can find in your owner’s manual), you can feel confident that your car is performing at its best. Your local mechanic will include a battery inspection with most servicing appointments.
When a vehicle is poorly maintained it can result in a car engine that requires more power from the battery, which reduces the life of your car battery.
If you know that your car is due for a service, why not contact your local Tyrepower Store to book a service? With over 270 stores around Australia, there is a Tyrepower near you. Selected stores are equipped for complete servicing or simple battery checks can be performed. Our qualified technicians can test your car battery to assess its current condition.
Maintain your battery terminals
Corrosion is a big problem with car battery performance. In order for it to operate at its best, your car battery terminals need to be clear of any corrosion. Over time the terminals become heavily corroded, or the terminals become damaged and prevent the engine from starting. This is due to the built-up grime, which adds a layer of resistance between your car and the battery.
This can be avoided so long as the battery terminals are kept clean. You can do this yourself at home, or have one of the qualified technicians at your local Tyrepower Store clean any built-up grime or corrosion for you. If your car battery is showing any signs of damage, they can also replace the terminals where possible.
Regular battery clamp checks
The vibrations experienced during everyday driving can cause damage to the cells within your car battery. This can then result in premature battery failure.
Your car battery shouldn’t be able to move or vibrate. Ensure that there is no damage to the clamps holding your battery in place, and replace them at your local Tyrepower if there is.
Monitoring and topping up electrolyte levels
Note: If you have a maintenance-free battery then this section doesn’t apply to you.
However, if you have a low-maintenance battery, you should check the fluid levels on a regular basis. The water in your car battery evaporates over time as the battery is charged and discharged.
It is important to be aware that car batteries contain acid, which is hazardous if spilt. If you would like assistance topping-up the fluid in your car battery, be sure to contact your local Tyrepower store for assistance.
Doing a visual inspection of your car battery
You can give your car battery a simple once over visually to look for any signs of leaks, bulges or cracks. This can help to avoid potentially unexpected car battery failure.
If you notice any leaks, bulges or cracks, contact your local Tyrepower store. It may be time to buy a new car battery.
Tyrepower supply and install quality, Australian made batteries suited to most vehicle makes and models. With over 270 stores nationwide, why not find your nearest Tyrepower store to discuss your car battery needs?
