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A dead battery is an inconvenience nobody wants to deal with. To make matters worse, it can leave you stranded on the side of the road or in a public parking lot. If you don’t want to deal with the frustrations of a dead car battery, maintenance is the key. Fortunately, battery maintenance is relatively simple compared to other stuff you have to do for your car. Read on to learn more about how to take care of your car battery.
To keep your battery reliable, it is best to check the battery and test its charge. It can help you identify minor problems before your battery has a chance to die. For instance, you may notice a slow crank on start-ups. Don’t push this symptom aside – we encourage you to check your battery ASAP when you notice the warning signs of a dying battery.
Checking your battery can help you extend its lifespan. If you notice there is slight corrosion on the battery’s terminals, you can prevent its growth by cleaning it off. Battery leaks or corrosion are usually an effect of battery age and/or exposure to intense temperatures.
Key Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Car Battery
- Keep It Clean - Dirt, debris, and other contaminants can collect around the battery’s connection points, which can cause a weak flow of electricity. You can simply clean it by wiping it off.
- Check Its Fluid - Some car batteries have fluid indicators, letting you know when they need more water.
- Use a Battery Charger - Batteries can lose charge if you don’t drive for an extended period or drive for too short of durations. You can invest in a battery maintainer or trickle charger to replenish the battery.
- Protect it From Extreme Temperatures - Car batteries do not operate well in extremely cold or hot climates. To prevent wear and tear on your battery, we recommend parking it in a garage or insulated area.
- Test It Regularly - Last but not least, you should perform regular inspections and test the battery’s voltage. It should give out at least 12.4 volts to be considered normal.
Car batteries typically don’t last longer than 3-5 years. If you need a battery replacement or battery test, please do not hesitate to come by Import Auto Specialists. We look forward to seeing you!