Modern car batteries may be maintenance-free, but irregularities on your car and bad driving habits can shorten their lifespan. The more you know about your battery, the less your chances of getting stuck on the road. Andrew Webb, Automotive marketing director, shares five important facts and checks that can prevent your battery from damage, and keep it running at its best.
1.Lifespan
The average car battery lasts between five to seven years. If your car remains unused for a long period of time, the battery will need to be replaced sooner. To ensure that you don’t replace it often, choose a high-quality battery.
2. Refilling water
This depends on the quality of your battery. If the quality is good, you don’t have to refill the water.
3. Replacing your battery
Before you rush to replace your battery, have it properly tested. Irregularities in your car or warning signs could be caused by other things. Some warning signs to look out for include:
- a) When the car refuses to start.
- b) You hear a sluggish sound when you start.
- c) The battery light on your dashboard is on.
- d) Your battery loses power when it’s cold.
- e) Your headlights dim when the car is on.
4. Extending your battery life
Check your battery regularly to ensure that the terminals are clean, tightly secured, and free of corrosion. Leaks can interfere with its performance. Ensure that the hold-down bar, which secures the battery, is fitted correctly.
5. What to do if it goes flat
You can recharge it with a portable charger. Jump-starting is only a quick fix – the best practice is to charge the battery properly to keep it in a good condition.
