One important part of your vehicle that must be maintained habitually is the heart of its electrical system — the battery. Proper upkeep may lead to extended lifespan and uplifted performance. In order for you to keep a good running vehicle, here are some car battery maintenance tips:
Inspect your battery every month for dirt and corrosion.
The terminals should always be kept clean so you have to do it routinely. Corrosions are white ashy deposits on your terminals that were caused by several chemical reactions inside your vehicle. If you fail to clean them, expect a dead battery very soon.
In order to clean your battery, you have to disconnect the terminals. There are specialized products used to clean the battery but you can also use stuff around the house, like baking soda. You have to directly pour the baking soda on the corrosion and dip a toothbrush in water. Start scrubbing it carefully. Make sure that water does not enter the terminal. Using a rag, dry the areas you have washed and apply petroleum jelly to shine and protect from dirt.
Check the Electrolyte Level
The electrolyte solution must touch the bottom of the vent splash. If it is below the ideal level, you have to purchase fresh electrolyte from an automotive store. Low electrolyte level may also be replaced with an adequate amount of distilled or demineralized water. Maintaining the electrolyte will prevent the drying out of the plate.
Maintain the Ideal Temperature
You have to make sure that your battery is warm enough during winter and cold enough during summer. An insulation blanket may be used if you are trying to maintain the temperature.
During the summer, especially when the temperature exceeds 35oC, you have to park your vehicle in the shade. Exposing your battery to too much heat could increase the discharge rate, leading to shortened life span.
Disconnect Battery when Vehicle is Unused
If you plan to go somewhere without bringing your vehicle, disconnect the battery. This will make sure that unnecessary usage does not occur.
Know the Proper Charging Guideline of your Battery
Each type of battery has its own charging guidelines and you have to follow them. There are types of batteries that require complete discharge and charge cycle while others don’t. So you have to double check to make sure that your battery will not decrease its performance and lifespan because of improper charging. See more on chargers: common chargers, intelligent chargers, how does a charger work.
Install Appropriately
Make sure that the position of your battery is tight enough. A battery that moves while driving could lead to leakage.
Car battery maintenance is essential so you will not have any unplanned expenses and mishaps. Having a thorough inspection could lead to several benefits. If you are too busy to do it yourself, then bring your vehicle to your trusted auto mechanic.
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