5 Tips to Keep Your Car Battery in Tip-Top Shape

If you've ever had your car battery die on you, then you know just how frustrating it can be. Not only do you have to deal with the inconvenience of being stranded, but you also have to shell out money to get a new battery. To avoid being that person on the side of the road, here are five tips to keep your car battery in tip-top shape.

 

1. Keep it clean.

One of the main reasons why car batteries die is because they're dirty. Over time, dirt and grime can build up on the terminals, which makes it difficult for the electrical current to flow. To prevent this from happening, make sure to clean your battery terminals at least once a year with a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and water, or ensure it’s seen to in your vehicle service.

 

2. Check your fluid levels.

Another reason why batteries die is because they're low on fluid. Most batteries have little windows that allow you to check the fluid levels; if they're low, add distilled water until they're full.

 

3. Keep your battery secure and tightened.

Excessive vibration has the potential to cause damage to your battery’s internal components, so be sure that you use an approved battery clamp to keep it in place properly whilst ensuring its nicely tightened.

 

4. Avoid lots of short trips.

Every time you start your car, the battery has to work hard to provide the electrical current needed to start the engine. If you frequently make short trips your battery will eventually die because it doesn't have enough time to recharge between uses. To avoid this, try combining jobs into one longer trip instead of making several shorter ones.

 

5. Avoid leaving your car unused for long periods of time.

Your car’s battery will be at its most healthy when used regularly as it gives it a chance to fully recharge, whilst also allowing the engine to properly warm up and circulate your car’s fluids. If leaving your vehicle for a long time is unavoidable then ensure you check your battery upon return, either by using a voltmeter of taking it into a garage to get professional checked over.

 

By following these five tips, you can help prolong the life of your car battery and avoid being stranded on the side of the road!

If you have any difficulty with the maintenance of your car battery we highly recommend that you take it in to a professional garage to ensure your safety.