Knowing how to take care of your car battery involves recognizing signs of wear, performing routine inspections, and addressing common issues before they lead to more significant problems. Regular maintenance helps ensure that your car battery remains in good condition, extends its lifespan, and prevents unexpected battery failure.
8 Tips to Maintain Your Car’s Battery
Maintaining your car’s battery is crucial for ensuring reliable performance and avoiding unexpected breakdowns. Here are eight tips to keep your car’s battery in top shape:
- Check the battery terminals and cables for signs of corrosion, dirt, or loose connections. Clean and tighten as necessary. Inspect the battery case for any cracks, swelling, or leaks.
- Clean the battery terminals by scrubbing them with a baking soda solution and a wire brush to remove corrosion and ensure a strong connection.
- Test the battery health using a multimeter to check its voltage and overall condition.
- Ensure proper fluid levels (for non-sealed batteries) by checking and topping off each cell with distilled water as needed.
- Keep the battery charged by driving regularly or using a battery maintainer if the car is not in use.
- Protect the battery from extreme temperatures by parking in a garage or shaded area and using a battery blanket in cold weather.
- Drive regularly to keep the battery charged and in good condition.
- If you need to store the battery, fully charge it before storing it in a cool, dry place with good ventilation.
Related: How Long Does a Car Battery Last?
Signs Your Car Battery is Failing
Here are some common signs that your car battery may be wearing out:
- The engine turns over slowly or hesitates when starting.
- You frequently need to jump-start your vehicle.
- Headlights, dashboard lights, or interior lights appear dimmer or flicker.
- The battery warning light or charging system light is illuminated on the dashboard.
- There is a buildup of corrosion around the battery terminals.
- The battery case appears swollen or bloated.
- You notice a sulfuric or rotten egg smell near the battery.
- The battery is approaching or has exceeded its typical lifespan of 3-5 years.
Recognizing the signs of a worn-out car battery can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
Related: 8 Signs of a Dead Battery
Summary
Regular car battery maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle’s performance and dependability. By having your battery clean, charged, and correctly stored, you may increase its life and lessen the possibility of unexpected issues. Regular checkups and replacements are important for avoiding battery related issues and allowing you to drive with confidence. Taking the effort to manage your car batteries now will save you from future trouble and costly repairs.
If you haven’t checked your battery recently and breakdown, you may call Neighborhood Roadside Assistance. We offer battery replacement services in different areas of New Jersey, Atlanta, and New York.
