How to Maintain Your Car Battery

Just like any other vehicle component, how long a car battery lasts depends on how you maintain it. It needs to be inspected and serviced periodically to maintain its quality and performance. Here are seven tips you can follow.

• Check the battery electrolyte level

Check the water or electrolyte level in your car battery (wet cell) every three months or every 5000 kilometers. If you drive long-distance frequently,  ensure you check the water level in the battery before you leave. You should add enough electrolytes so that the level is about three-quarters of the whole battery cell.

• Clean the battery terminal

The battery terminal connects the car’s electronic system to your car’s battery. If the battery terminals are loose, tighten them immediately as loose terminals might cause green salts to form around it that would affect the connectivity of the battery.

• Check the battery insulation

Some car models are equipped with an insulating sheath that serves to protect the battery from the engine’s heat. Batteries that are exposed to hot temperatures will directly affect their lifespan.

• Use quality batteries

Quality batteries have a better lifespan – in some cases, batteries can last up to five years if cared for and used properly. Quality car batteries also usually come with a warranty and guarantee. If you have the budget for a longer-lasting battery, you can consider AGM car batteries.

• Avoid using any oil on the battery terminals

Improper use of oils such as grease on the battery terminals can cause rust to form. In fact, if used excessively, the power of the battery will be depleted, hence affecting its performance.

• Turn off any electronic components if the engine is off

Back when most cars still had carburetors and electrical systems that weren’t as efficient as today, electrical components such as the air conditioner compressor would place a heavy load on the engine and battery. That’s why it was important to ensure all electrical components were turned off before starting the engine.

Since modern cars have much more efficient engines and electrical systems, this is less of a problem. However, it’s still a good idea to turn off components such as the air conditioner, radio, and lights to reduce the load on your engine and battery. Of course, don’t leave your headlights on as your batteries will be dead by the time you get back to your car.

• Check the battery’s power occasionally

The normal reading of a ‘“healthy” car battery is between 12 to 13 Volts when the engine is not running, and between 13.5 to14.5 Volts if the engine is running. If the battery power is below 13.5 Volts or above 14.5 Volts, chances are there is a problem with your car’s alternator.