There can be few things quite as annoying, as flat starter batteries refusing to do their job in the morning. Especially when they were still working the day before. If only we responded to their poor performance, and did something about it. This article is about pre-emptive battery management, and avoiding needing an emergency call out.
Not All Starter Batteries Should Go Flat So Soon
Invest in a decent starter battery by choosing a brand you know, and one that offers an above-average manufacturer warranty. If your starting battery is approaching the end of the warranty period, take it back to the supplier and ask them to run a test. Be prepared to pay a reasonable amount if necessary, for decent, honest service.
Take the test seriously if the technician tells you it is time to replace the battery. Common sense informs us to replace auto starter batteries, before they fail. Here are a few tips to prevent flat starter batteries catching us unawares on winter mornings:
Tips to Remember If You Want Your Starter Battery to Last
- Make sure you turn the infotainment system off at night, when you park your auto. Your battery does not like discharging deeply. This could shorten its operating life significantly.
- Do not leave the vehicle lights on, except in an emergency when you need to attract attention. You could drain the battery completely, and cause irreparable damage.
- Avoid leaving your auto standing in fierce sunlight all day long. Or, out all night long during cold weather. Batteries do not like extreme temperatures, as this affects their ability to store energy.
- Avoid overloading your auto battery, by cranking the starter with the lights and / or the infotainment on. This can strain your battery, and shorten its lifespan if you do this often.
And finally, do remember this. Cranking your starter motor drains the battery more than you may imagine. If you take repeated short trips, you may not allow your battery sufficient time to recharge between journeys. We don’t have to remind you what may happen next!
More Information
Multimeter Test For a Starter Battery
