How to Maintain Your Car’s Battery for Longer Life

July 2, 2024 4:20 am

Car batteries play a significant role in the smooth operation of an automobile. They not only power the engine to start your car but also supply electricity for charging your phone and running other essential devices while on the move. 

 

Given their importance, it’s essential to recognize when it’s time to replace your car battery and learn how to prolong its life. Understanding these aspects can help ensure your vehicle remains reliable and efficient.

Therefore, Pal Auto Garage – the car service center in UAE has prepared this blog with some effective tips to maximise the lifespan and performance of your battery regardless of the driving conditions your car faces:

How long does a car battery last?

Car batteries typically last 3 to 5 years. One key factor affecting their lifespan is the weather. A running engine already generates significant heat, and combined with a hot day, it can severely drain the battery. High temperatures can cause battery fluid to evaporate, damaging the internal structure and shortening battery life, especially in warmer climates.

To maximise your battery’s lifespan, consider the climate you drive in and take proper care of your battery, regardless of the temperature. Proper maintenance can help ensure your car battery stays reliable.

Tips to extend your car battery life:

• Reduce the duration your car stays unused.

When your car remains inactive for several days or is only driven on short trips, the battery doesn’t get enough time to recharge fully. To keep your car in peak condition, try to drive it for at least 30 minutes once a week. This helps warm up the engine and circulate the fluids.

If your car will be parked unused for more than two weeks, it’s advisable to inspect the battery before you use it again. Ensure it’s fully charged and, if your battery has removable caps, verify that the electrolyte levels are correct. If you’re unsure, consult RAC or an automotive workshop for further guidance. This is one of the tips to extend your car battery life.

• Regular Cleaning and Inspection

Grime, dirt, and dampness on a car battery can lead to leakage across the battery casing, potentially causing it to drain. Fortunately, surface grime can be easily removed with a sponge and a dry cloth. Cleaning your battery at least once a month can prevent buildup.

Corrosion on battery terminals and lead clamps is common and can obstruct the flow of electricity. To ensure your battery’s longevity and efficiency, it’s crucial to keep these components clean. Ask your mechanic to clean the terminals during regular servicing if necessary.

In addition to cleaning, regularly inspect the battery and auto-electrical system. The battery indicator on your dashboard is a key sign of battery health. Another effective method is using a multimeter; a reading below 11.5 volts typically indicates the need for a recharge.

• Avoid Using Electronic Accessories When the Engine is Off

Using electronic accessories such as headlights, interior lights, or the infotainment system without starting the engine can drain your car’s battery. This happens because the alternator, which charges the battery, is inactive when the engine is off, causing electronic devices to draw power directly from the battery.

To prevent battery drain, always ensure that all electronics, especially lights, are turned off when you exit the car.

Additionally, always make sure to lock your car after exiting. This is not only for security but also to ensure that the car’s computer system shuts down completely. An unlocked car might keep certain systems running, unknowingly draining your battery.

• Regular Battery Testing

Ensuring your battery lasts longer starts with regularly checking its condition. Conducting simple battery tests will reveal how much voltage your battery is producing and provide insight into its overall health. This proactive approach can help you avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery and ensure timely replacements.

Consider investing in a battery tester or charger to monitor and maintain your battery’s health at home. Alternatively, you can schedule a free courtesy check at Pal Auto Garage.

By following these tips and having your battery inspected regularly at Pal Auto Garage, you can ensure your car battery remains in optimal condition. We offer comprehensive services, including general maintenance, replacements, and installations, ensuring all your needs are met.