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The battery is an essential part of your vehicle’s operation. Without it, electrical equipment cannot be started or powered. Yet this is often overlooked until a breakdown occurs. A poorly maintained battery can not only leave you stranded, but also wear out prematurely, requiring you to replace it more frequently.
In this article, we will see how to maintain your battery efficiently, extend its life and avoid breakdowns. You will learn about the signs of a bad battery, what mistakes to avoid and best practices for ensuring its proper operation.
Understand how a car battery works
The role of the battery
The battery is the electrical core of your car. It provides the energy needed to start the engine and powers electrical components such as headlights, radio or GPS. It also plays a stabilizing role by maintaining constant electrical voltage to protect electronic systems.
Factors influencing its life span
The average life span is usually between 4 and 6 years, but there are several factors that can affect it. Extreme temperatures, whether cold or hot, influence its performance. In addition, irregular use or too short trips do not allow optimal charging, which can weaken it prematurely. Finally, regular maintenance is essential to extend its life.
The signs of a battery in poor condition
It is important to spot the signs of a low battery before it breaks down. Difficult start, a battery light on the instrument panel or power loss from electrical equipment such as headlights and remote control windows may be indicators of weakness. Unusual noises or a rattle at the start should also alert you.
The right things to do to maintain your battery
Perform regular checks
To ensure the good condition of your battery, it is advisable to measure its load with a multimeter. A voltage below 12.4V indicates a low charge, while below 12V the battery is almost empty. It is also essential to check the condition of the terminals and cables, which must be corrosion-free and securely attached.
Preserve his load
Some simple gestures can prevent a quick discharge. Regular driving encourages the generator to recharge, while too short trips should be limited. Also, remember to unplug any unnecessary devices when the engine is off, such as a GPS or phone charger.
Clean and protect
Minimal maintenance prevents unpleasant surprises. Clean the terminals regularly with a brush and baking soda to prevent oxidation. On open batteries, it is useful to check the electrolyte level and add distilled water if necessary. Also make sure it is securely attached to reduce vibration that could damage it.
What to do if the battery is decharged ?
Starting with starter cables
If your battery is dead, you can use starter cables by connecting them properly to the terminals of both vehicles. Once connected, leave the engine running for a few minutes to allow minimal recharge before attempting to restart.
Use a battery booster
However, a practical alternative is to use a battery booster. Easy to use, just connect it to the terminals and activate the start without having another vehicle.
When to replace it ?
If your battery is older than five years, it is recommended that you have it tested regularly. If it frequently discharges or shows signs of weakness, it must be replaced to avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure optimal operation and avoid breakdowns. By taking the right actions, such as checking your battery regularly or maintaining its energy level and cleaning it, you will extend its life. A well-maintained battery will ensure you can drive with complete peace of mind and avoid many problems at the start.
