The battery in your car powers everything, from starting the engine to running all the cool features like the radio, air conditioning, and lights. But just like your phone, car batteries can run down over time, especially if they’re not properly taken care of.
If you’ve ever found yourself stranded with a dead battery, you know how frustrating it can be. But here’s the good news: there are simple ways to help your car battery stay healthy and last longer.
In this piece, we’ll talk about some smart strategies to keep your battery working at its best, whether you’re driving a traditional gas-powered car or an electric vehicle. So, let’s get started:
Keep Your Battery Clean and Free of Corrosion
One of the most common issues that can affect your car’s battery performance is corrosion. Over time, the battery terminals, where the battery connects to the car, can build up a white, powdery substance. This corrosion can create resistance, making it harder for your car to get the power it needs to start the engine and run the electrical systems.
Some things you can do to keep your battery clean include the following:
Check for Corrosion: Regularly inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion. This buildup typically appears as a white, chalky substance around the battery’s connections.
Clean the Terminals: If you notice corrosion, gently clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water. You can use an old toothbrush to scrub off the buildup. Make sure the car is turned off and that you’re wearing gloves and protective eyewear, as cleaning solutions can be acidic.
Apply Protective Spray: After cleaning the terminals, you can apply a special battery terminal protectant spray. This helps prevent further corrosion and keeps the connections working efficiently.
By keeping your battery terminals clean, you’ll help ensure the battery receives a full charge and is ready to perform when you need it most.
Don’t Overload Your Electrical Systems
Modern cars have tons of electrical systems, from entertainment features like touchscreens to safety features like lane assist and adaptive headlights. While these features are awesome, they also draw power from your battery. If you regularly use too many electrical features at once, it can put unnecessary strain on your battery and cause it to drain more quickly.
Here’s how you can avoid overloading your battery:
Turn Off Unused Electronics: If you’re not using the radio, climate control, or navigation, turn them off to avoid unnecessary power consumption.
Limit Charging Devices: Charging multiple devices (like your phone, tablet, and laptop) from the car’s USB ports can drain the battery faster, especially if the engine isn’t running. Use these ports sparingly to preserve battery life.
By being mindful of how much power you use, you can reduce the strain on your car’s battery and keep it in top condition.
Drive Regularly and Keep Your Battery Charged
Car batteries perform best when they’re used regularly. If you let your car sit for long periods without driving it, the battery can discharge and lose its charge. This is especially true for cars that aren’t driven every day, such as seasonal vehicles or second cars.
To prevent battery discharge:
Drive Your Car Regularly: Try to take your car for a drive at least once a week. Short trips are fine, as they help keep the battery charged and prevent it from losing power.
Use a Battery Maintainer: If you don’t drive your car often, consider using a battery maintainer (also called a trickle charger). This is a device that keeps the battery at a stable charge level when the car is parked for extended periods. It’s especially useful for cars that are stored during winter.
Regular use and maintenance will keep your battery in good shape and help avoid the hassle of a dead battery when you need to drive.
Monitor the Battery’s Health
Just like your phone or laptop, your car’s battery will eventually start to lose its ability to hold a charge. If you notice signs of a struggling battery, such as slow engine starts or dim headlights, it might be time to check the health of your battery.
To keep track of your battery’s condition:
Get Regular Inspections: Take your car in for routine maintenance, where the battery can be tested to check its voltage and overall health. A mechanic can use a multimeter to see how well the battery is holding up and whether it needs to be replaced.
Check Battery Age: Car batteries typically last between three and five years. If your battery is reaching the end of its lifespan, it might be a good idea to replace it before it leaves you stranded.
By staying proactive and monitoring your battery’s health, you can catch problems early and avoid surprises.
Drive Smoothly and Avoid Short Trips
How you drive can have a big impact on your car battery’s lifespan. Sudden starts, stops, and short trips can put unnecessary strain on the battery. Short trips, for instance, don’t give the engine enough time to recharge the battery fully, which can lead to gradual wear over time.
To help optimize your battery’s efficiency:
Drive Smoothly: Try to avoid sudden acceleration or heavy braking. Smooth driving allows your car’s engine to maintain a steady speed, which puts less strain on the battery and helps it recharge more efficiently.
Avoid Frequent Short Trips: If possible, try to combine errands and avoid driving short distances where the engine doesn’t get a chance to fully charge the battery.
By driving more efficiently, you reduce the chances of battery drain and help your car’s battery last longer.
Protect Your Battery from Extreme Temperatures
Extreme heat and cold can have a serious effect on your car’s battery. In hot climates, the heat can cause the battery fluid to evaporate, which may lead to a reduced lifespan. Cold weather, on the other hand, can cause the battery to lose its charge faster and make it harder for the engine to start.
Here’s how to protect your battery from extreme temperatures:
Park in the Shade: In hot weather, try to park in the shade or use a windshield sunshade to keep the interior cooler and reduce the temperature of the battery.
Use a Battery Blanket: In cold weather, consider using a battery blanket (an insulated cover) that helps keep the battery warm, especially during freezing temperatures.
Avoid Excessive Heat: In general, avoid leaving your car parked in direct sunlight for long periods. High temperatures can cause battery fluids to evaporate and shorten the lifespan of the battery.
By protecting your battery from extreme temperatures, you help maintain its ability to hold a charge and perform well.
Consider Upgrading to a High-Quality Battery
Sometimes, the best way to optimize battery life is by upgrading to a better one. Not all car batteries are created equal, and some offer more power, efficiency, and longevity than others. If you’re constantly replacing your battery or struggling with poor performance, it might be worth investing in a high-quality, long-lasting battery.
Here are some things to keep in mind while upgrading your battery:
Research the Best Batteries: Look for batteries that are specifically designed for your car model and driving conditions. Check out customer reviews and ask your mechanic for recommendations.
Opt for AGM Batteries: Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are known for their efficiency and durability. They tend to last longer than traditional flooded lead-acid batteries and are better at handling extreme temperatures.
A higher-quality battery might cost more upfront, but it can save you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of replacements and providing more reliable performance.
Ready to Amp Up Your Car’s Battery Efficiency?
At Bluestone Automotive, we’re committed to keeping your vehicle running smoothly and reliably. Whether you’re looking to optimize your battery’s performance or need expert advice on other aspects of your car, our certified technicians are here to help. With over 15 years of experience, transparent pricing, and a dedication to excellence, you can trust us to provide the care your vehicle deserves.
Schedule an appointment online today with our easy-to-use system or drop by our Lower Sackville location.