All About Transportation Journal News

5 ways to avoid a dead car battery

Oct 9

A recent study revealed that most people wait until their car's battery dies before replacing it. Batteries Plus Bulbs sponsored a survey of 1,000 drivers. It revealed that 53 percent of those surveyed waited until their battery died before calling for assistance.

There are many requests for dead batteries. It always seems to happen at the worst time.

Although the battery is simple and inexpensive, it is vital. It doesn't matter if it fails; you won't get anywhere. Inspecting your battery and replacing it as soon as it goes wrong is essential.

The 12-volt car battery stores electricity to turn the car's engine until it starts running. The alternator generates electricity, and then the engine turns it on, allowing the car to start again. The alternator and battery are both parts of the car's electrical system. They work together to power headlights, radios, and other electrical devices.

A battery costs between $75 and $200 for most new cars. However, batteries for cars with the "Stop-start" feature, which shuts down the engine when it is stationary to save fuel, would cost more.

These are five tips to help you avoid a dead cell.

  1. The age of your car's battery: 12-volt batteries last between three and five years. You should therefore know the age of your car's battery so that you can get it replaced before it goes bad. You may have kept the receipt or even noted the date you purchased your current battery. Perhaps you bought the new car, so the battery was also brand new. If you're like many, you bought your car new without knowing how old the battery was. It's time to determine how old it is.

Locate your battery in your car's engine compartment by opening the hood. Sometimes, the manufacturer covers the battery with a plastic cover that is easy to remove. If you are lucky, you may see a circular sticker with the date "9/13," which means September 2013. Other batteries will have a plastic strip that has a code. 

If there is no date code on the battery, you can judge its appearance by its overall appearance. It should be tested if it looks old or has white corrosion around its terminals. 

  1. Watch out for warning signs of a dying battery: The engine might crank slowly when you turn the ignition key. We suggests that this could indicate that your battery is dying. He also suggests you turn on your headlights even if the engine isn't running. The battery may be in serious trouble if the headlights appear dim.

Sometimes, a dead battery can happen without warning. If your car isn't turning over, you might notice a clicking or buzzing sound from the electrical system. After the car has been started, it should start and run normally. However, the battery will likely fail again soon, so make sure you replace it as soon as possible.

  1. Mazor states that most chain auto parts shops will give you a complimentary battery test. Mobile services such Batteries Service will also test the battery to determine if it is damaged or needs replacement. The cost of replacing the battery and disposing of it is usually minimal. It is possible to replace the battery yourself, but it is not recommended for beginners. Removing the connections from the battery can be challenging because they are often corrupted. It takes strength to lift the battery and install the new one.
  2. Make sure to replace your battery before it leaves you stranded. You can either go to an auto parts shop or a mobile battery service. Parts clerks will give you a battery fitment guide to help them determine your car's requirements. Many batteries come with warranties of three, four, or five years. We recommend buying a high-performing battery because it is an essential part of your car.
  3. Keep Your Battery Clean: Conduct a visual inspection of the battery terminals to ensure no corrosion. You should look for a chalky substance that could affect electrical conduction. Before connecting the battery, clean the terminal with a wire brush. Grease prevents corrosion and improves electrical connections.

You can add distilled water to an older battery that has access to it. This will allow it to keep its charge. Be careful when you do this. Batteries contain a high level of sulfuric acid, which can cause skin burns and holes in clothes. Even a small explosion is possible.

When performing maintenance to a battery, be sure to work in a well-ventilated place and use gloves and protection for your eyes. Quickly neutralize any battery acid on clothing or skin with a mixture of baking soda and warm water. You should not lean on a battery when charging, testing, or jumping-starting engines.

Final Thoughts

Modern batteries have improved performance, and claims they will last longer. They still have one problem: It is difficult to predict when they will go out of business. Check your battery regularly and get a new one before it goes bad.