The car battery is a core component of the vehicle’s electrical system, responsible for starting the engine and powering the onboard electronics.
Check battery status regularly
Regularly checking the condition of your battery is key to extending its life. Check the battery’s appearance at least once a month to make sure there are no cracks, leaks or corrosion.
If you find white or green corrosion on the battery terminals, you can use baking soda water and an old toothbrush to clean them. After cleaning, apply a thin layer of vaseline or special antiseptic to prevent corrosion again.
Keep the car battery clean
Dust and dirt on the battery surface may cause current leakage and affect battery performance.
Clean the battery surface with a damp cloth regularly, making sure the top of the battery and the terminals are clean. Avoid using metal brushes or sharp tools to clean the battery to avoid damaging the battery casing.
Avoid deep discharge
Deep discharge will seriously damage the life of the battery. Try to avoid using onboard electronic devices such as audio and lighting for a long time when the engine is not running.
If the vehicle is parked for an extended period, you should consider disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery. In doing so, you will effectively prevent the battery from discharging slowly over time.
If the vehicle is not used for a long time, the battery may gradually lose its charge due to self-discharge. Therefore, to keep the battery from discharging completely, it’s advisable to start the vehicle periodically. Specifically, you should start the engine every few weeks and let it run for at least 15 minutes to recharge the battery.
Perform car battery tests regularly
Regular battery testing can help you understand the health of your battery. Many auto repair shops and battery specialty stores offer free battery testing services.
Testing allows you to understand the battery’s voltage, internal resistance, and remaining life. By doing so, you can detect problems in a timely manner and take appropriate measures.
Replace aging batteries promptly
Even with good maintenance, batteries will age over time. Generally speaking, the lifespan of a car battery is 3-5 years.
If you notice that the battery performance has obviously declined, for instance, with difficulty starting or dimming lights, it’s a sign that the battery might be weakening. Consequently, you should replace it with a new one promptly to prevent potential vehicle breakdowns.
