How To Keep Your Car Battery Running Longer

Car batteries are an important part of an automobile.

Just like a cellphone or an electric toothbrush, car’s need a charged battery to properly function. From starting your vehicle and powering the lights to charging your phone on-the-go, batteries provide the essential power needed to keep your car going. 

A battery can be defined as “a container consisting of one or more cells, in which chemical energy is converted into electricity and used as a source of power.” In other words, batteries are composed of cells. These cells contain energy that is transformed into electrical energy on command.

Most car batteries fall into the ‘SLI’ category, which stands for “starting, lighting and ignition.” Meaning, car batteries provide short bursts of energy on demand in order to power certain car features. These features include lights, accessories, phone chargers, and the engine. Once the battery jolts the engine to start, additional power is then supplied by the car’s alternator.

On average, most car batteries last two to five years. Keep your battery running longer by following these 5 tips:

1.  Weather Conditions Impact Battery Health

Warm weather and hot climates are one of the most damaging factors to car batteries. Although most people assume that cold weather kills car batteries faster, it’s actually the opposite. Warm weather often causes fluid in car batteries to evaporate, which damages the internal makeup of the battery. When the cold weather arrives, the impact of the hot weather on the battery is revealed. Lower temperatures zap the vehicle’s remaining power as it tries to start cold engines with thick oil. In cold weather, be sure to check your battery to ensure that the connections are right and free of corrosion. It’s also important to never charge or jump your battery in frigid weather. This can cause the battery to rupture or explode. 

2. Avoid Driving Short Trips Often

Taking short, quick rides limits your car battery’s ability to fully charge. Be sure to maintain your car’s battery power by driving it frequently and for longer distances. In other words, the car’s alternator is what maintains the battery charge. If you’re only driving a short distance, the battery doesnt have enough time to regain charge.

3. Minimize The Amount Of Power Used When Engine Is Off

The golden rule of car batteries is to always keep the charge level as close to 100 percent as possible. Never keep your headlights or interior lights on while the engine isn’t running. Before you exit the vehicle, always be sure that the car’s accessories and lights are switched off. Also ensure that the car’s doors are properly closed. 

4. Ensure Battery is Tightly Fastened

Vibrations under the hood can greatly reduce the life of your car battery. Fast, aggressive vibrations can damage the internal components of the battery, causing short circuits and destroying battery life. Ensure that you or your mechanic checks that the battery is secured properly. 

5.  Test Your Battery Frequently

The lifespan of lead-acid batteries will shorten greatly if it is left partially discharged for an extended period of time. Checking the voltage of your vehicle’s battery periodically is a great way to detect issues and monitor you car’s battery health. 

SAVE YOURSELF MONEY, TIME, AND ENERGY BY KEEPING YOUR CAR’S BATTERY IN GOOD HEALTH. 

At The Mufflerman, we’re your auto specialists. Keep your car on the road longer by utilizing these five simple tips to keep your engine running longer. If you find yourself dealing with battery issues, you can visit one of our 12 Mufflerman locations across Ontario. We proudly serve London, Chatham, Sarnia, St.Thomas, Strathroy, Woodstock, Stratford, Brantford, Kitchener and Cambridge.