The battery is the car’s heart and soul. The more knowledge you have about your battery, the less likely you are to get stuck.
A car battery is a critical component that ensures the smooth running of your vehicle. Car batteries can last for several years, but sometimes they can perish at most inconvenient times. So, like everything else about your vehicle, knowing all the basics about car batteries is equally important.
Here is the summary of everything you need to know about your car’s battery, including how it works, what things you need to know before buying or changing a car battery, and factors that shorten battery life.
How does a car battery work?
The job of a car battery is to convert chemical energy into electrical energy and supply it to different areas of the car. It maintains a consistent flow of electric current for ensuring the continuous running of the engine. The energy starts the engine and other electrical components in the car, such as the entertainment system and air conditioning.
Reasons that could lead to shortening of the battery life
A typical properly maintained car battery lasts three to five years but once it crosses three years of age, it should be closely monitored. Failing to maintain the battery can lead to poor performance or end up in permanent damage. Some of the most common factors that can lead to battery failure include:
- Long term exposure to extreme temperatures
- Parasitic drain, meaning the electricity drains even after turning off the vehicle
- Failure of the charging system
- Corrosion or lose terminals
- Leaving the car parked for extended period
- Headlamps or interior lights left on
What are the signs of a weak or dead battery?
One of the simple ways to find out the dying battery is to turn the windshield wiper on and check if they are functioning slower than normal. Alternatively, you can also turn on the exterior lights and check if they look dimmer than usual or not working at all. Other indications can be:
- Engine cranks slowly or won’t start
- A strong, rotten smell coming out of the engine
- Radio doesn’t work
- Corroded battery connectors
- Swollen battery
Finding the right battery for your car
There are various things to keep in mind when finding the battery for your car. Here are some of them.
Type of battery – There are several types of car batteries, but Lead Acid or Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) is the most common and standard battery choice. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in electric or hybrid vehicles.
Brand – It is better to pick the battery that the car manufacturer recommends.
Age – A battery purchased within six months of manufacturing is considered good.
Ah rating – Never buy a battery having an Ah rating lower than your existing battery, it can give starting troubles. Find the manual for the correct Ah rating.
If you don’t have the owner’s manual, check the top of the body of your existing car battery for all technical information.
