While car batteries typically last for two to five years, you have some control over the life span. Find out seven things you can do to make your car battery last longer.
1. Cut Down on Short Trips
When you take a short drive, your battery doesn’t have time to recharge all the way. While a short trip here and there won’t damage it, it’ll deteriorate if you take lots of short drives. Combine your errands to extend the length of your drives and preserve your car’s battery.
2. Write Down a Reminder to Turn Off the Lights
You’ve likely left the interior lights on in your car before, only to come back and realize the battery’s dead. Write yourself a reminder on a sticky note to check the lights. Then, stick it on the dashboard so you can see it each time you exit the car.
3. Be Mindful When Idling
Idling puts extra strain on your battery, reducing the life span. Try to limit the amount of time you spend idling. Also, turn off the air conditioner, radio, and other electronics when your car is idling to reduce the wear on the battery.
4. Make Sure Your Battery Is Secured
Your battery needs to be secured in place so it doesn’t vibrate. Vibrations can damage the inside of the battery, and it might short-circuit. Check your battery often to ensure that it’s securely in place.
5. Keep the Terminals Clean
Corroded battery terminals can also cause your battery to deteriorate. Mix some baking soda with water, and then dip a toothbrush into the mixture. Use the toothbrush to scrub the battery terminal. Next, spray cold water on the terminal to wash off the baking soda. Finally, use a clean cloth to dry the terminals.
6. Check the Battery’s Output Voltage Level
You should use a car battery tester to monitor the battery’s output voltage level regularly. Knowing the level accomplishes two things.
First, it will show if your battery is degrading. If it is, you can go back through this list to see if you’ve missed something that’s causing it to wear out faster than it should. Then, you can make changes to extend the life of the battery.
Second, testing the battery will help you determine if it’s time to replace it. Then, you can replace it before it leaves you stranded.
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7. Take a Holistic Approach to Battery Care
Your battery’s health also depends on the health of your car. Thus, taking care of your car as a whole can also help you extend the life of the battery. For instance, getting regular tune-ups and handling routine maintenance can help you get more out of your car and battery.
If you need help taking care of your car, schedule an appointment at Thomasville Toyota in Thomasville, Georgia. Our Toyota Express Maintenance service center will help you keep your car on the road for years.
We can also assist you if you’re ready to upgrade your wheels. Our inventory includes the full lineup of new Toyotas, plus pre-owned vehicles from various manufacturers. Stop by and look around today.
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