How To Prolong the Life of Your Car Battery

Your car battery is one of the most important parts because you can’t start your car without it. To help your battery have the longest life possible, you want to make sure that you’re doing what you can to ensure it stays in tip-top shape. Here are some ways you can keep your battery in good condition for years to come.

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Clean Corrosion

Corrosion happens naturally over time. However, it should be regularly removed to help preserve the health of your battery. If allowed to sit, the corrosion can eat away at other parts of the battery, rending it useless. Always remove the battery connections before cleaning the terminals and removing the corrosion.

When cleaning the corrosion on vehicle batteries Clarence NY, you want to use a toothbrush dipped in a baking soda and water mixture. Make sure that you’re wearing gloves and eye protection. The corrosion could hurt you if it gets on your skin. When you have the corrosion removed, wipe the area with a clean cloth and reconnect the battery.

Secure the Battery

Sometimes the mounting brackets for your battery can wiggle loose because of the vibrations of the car. If this happens and is left unnoticed, the battery could vibrate and move around, resulting in internal damage. It’s helpful to regularly check that it is securely fastened, especially after you drive on bumpy roads.

Avoid Short Rides

Your car battery recharges when you drive it. Because of that, you’ll want to limit short rides as much as possible. Your car battery functions at its best when you drive often and for longer periods. Experts suggest driving for at least half an hour to charge the battery.

If you don’t drive your car often, you should consider investing in a trickle charger that you hook to your battery while it’s not in use. It helps keep the battery active and recharged but won’t overload it.