Extend the life of your car battery

Battery problems seem to be one of the most popular car concerns for drivers around the world. While most of the tips listed below may be “knowledge” for the great majority of drivers out there, it’s good to be reminded once in a while on what you can do to help keep your car battery in great shape.

The older your car, the more frequent you’ll have to replace your battery. While you can keep jump-starting a dead battery for some time, you’ll need to replace your old battery eventually. Your succeeding batteries would usually expire a little earlier compared to your first battery. Check your owner’s manual for recommendations on how often you need to replace your auto battery.

The best way to avoid having to jump-start your car all the time or having to replace your battery frequently is by exercising proper auto battery maintenance.

The following are some tips on how you can extend your car battery’s life.

• If the main problem with your battery has to do with a faulty solenoid or alternator, then replace the busted auto part immediately. Sometimes the reason behind a malfunctioning battery isn’t damage on the battery itself. Since the alternator is responsible for re-charging and supporting your battery, a faulty alternator could cause your battery to break down frequently.

• Before turning off your car, make sure all your accessories are turned off as well. Leaving some of your car accessories on, like your radio, windshield wipers or auto lights, can instantly drain your battery. Even something simple like a door left open can cause your auto cabin’s lights to switch on even if you’re already outside your vehicle.

• Follow the instructions and recommendations from the manufacturer regarding adding water to your battery. Some battery manufacturers recommend adding water directly on the cells.

• Once in a while, ensure that your battery is securely in place. Sometimes faulty installation of a new car battery can lead to damages on your battery and other parts of your car. This happens when you fail to secure your battery firmly on its mount, and as a result, the battery begins to move around, working your cables loose and scratching or denting nearby car components. If you find that your battery is loose, secure the battery by attaching the cables firmly and fastening the clamps.

• Occasionally check the tightness of your fan belt. A loose fan belt can affect the battery’s ability to recharge completely or to keep its charge constant. If you have a loose fan belt, tighten it as soon as possible. If the fan belt is damaged beyond repair, then replace it immediately and make sure you install this auto component correctly.

• Keep your car battery and its surrounding areas clean. Corrosion on your battery terminals and a build-up of dirt on your battery can cause this car part to malfunction often. Prevent this by checking your battery and its terminals for signs of corrosion and dirt, and cleaning these areas out using a stiff brush and some rags.

Remember, the best way to avoid accidents and auto failure is by exercising regular and complete car maintenance. Follow these tips to keep your battery performing at its best for a long time.

Source: http://automechanics.wordpress.com/2008/08/02/car-maintenance-101-how-to-keep-your-auto-battery-in-tiptop-shape/