How to Extend the Life of Your Car’s Battery | Rooster
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for car breakdowns. Fortunately, with the right care, you can extend the life of your car’s battery and avoid unexpected failures. Here’s how.
1. Drive Your Car Regularly
Short trips don’t give your battery enough time to recharge. If you don’t drive often, consider taking your car for a longer drive at least once a week to keep the battery healthy.
2. Turn Off Electricals When Not Needed
Leaving headlights, the radio, or the AC running when the engine is off drains the battery. Always double-check that everything is switched off before leaving your car.
3. Keep Your Battery Clean
Dirt, corrosion, and rust on battery terminals can reduce performance. Regularly clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water to prevent buildup.
4. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Extreme heat and cold can shorten battery life. In winter, keep your car in a garage when possible. In summer, park in the shade to avoid overheating.
5. Check Your Battery’s Voltage
A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts when fully charged. If it drops below 12.4 volts, it may be time to charge or replace it.
6. Secure Your Battery Properly
A loose battery can vibrate while driving, causing internal damage. Check that it’s firmly secured in its bracket to prevent unnecessary strain.
7. Consider a Battery Charger
If you don’t drive often, using a trickle charger can help maintain battery charge levels, preventing it from going flat.
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