Drive On: Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Car Battery

Resident of Wichita can harken back to olden days of horse transportation with riding lessons at the Wichita Riding Academy. And back then, we ensured our “ride” was reliable and healthy by care and maintenance. Today, our cars and trucks are our transportation of choice. And, we still make sure our “ride” is reliable and healthy. But we do this through a different kind of care and maintenance. And, we start with our vehicle’s hidden hero: The battery.

Your car battery is the unsung hero of your vehicle, quietly powering everything from your headlights to your stereo. Yet, it often goes unnoticed until it fails, leaving you stranded with a car that won’t start. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to keep your car battery in peak condition, ensuring reliable performance. So, the experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros delve into some effective strategies for taking care of your vehicle’s battery so it’ll always take care of you.

Regular Inspections

One of the easiest ways to prevent battery issues is through regular inspections. So, check for signs of corrosion on the battery terminals (white, powdery deposits) that can inhibit the flow of electricity and lead to starting problems. And, if you notice corrosion, gently clean the terminals with a mixture of baking soda and water and a wire brush. Additionally, inspect the battery case for any cracks or leaks. Because these can indicate a failing battery that needs replacement.

Keep It Clean

In addition to cleaning the terminals, keeping the entire battery clean can help extend its lifespan. Because, dirt and grime buildup on the battery surface can create a pathway for electrical discharge. And this can drain the battery over time. So, periodically wipe down the battery with a damp cloth to remove any dirt and debris. And pay special attention to the areas around the terminals.

Drive Regularly

Believe it or not, your driving habits can have a significant impact on your car battery’s health. Because, short trips and infrequent driving can prevent the battery from fully charging. And this can lead to sulfation; a condition where lead sulfate crystals form on the battery plates, reducing its ability to hold a charge. So, to combat sulfation, aim to drive your vehicle regularly, especially if you take frequent short trips. And, if you have a vehicle that sees infrequent use, consider investing in a battery maintainer or trickle charger. Because, this will keep the battery topped up when the car is not in use.

Mind the Weather

Extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on your car battery. Because harsh weather can cause it to discharge more quickly in hot weather and reduce its efficiency in cold weather. And while you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to minimize its impact on your battery.

During hot summer months, try to park your car in the shade whenever possible to reduce exposure to direct sunlight. And, in colder climates, consider investing in a battery blanket or insulation to help retain heat and improve cold weather starting power.

Turn Off Accessories

Running accessories like the radio, headlights, or interior lights when the engine is off can drain your battery. And this is especially true if you do so for an extended period. Yet even though modern vehicles are equipped with systems to prevent excessive battery drain, it’s still a good practice to minimize accessory use when the engine is not running. But if you need to use accessories while the engine is off, try to limit the duration and monitor your battery voltage to ensure it doesn’t drop too low.

Your car battery may be out of sight, but it should never be out of mind.

By following these simple tips for battery maintenance, you can ensure that your vehicle starts reliably every time. And avoid the frustration of a dead battery. So with a little care and attention, you can know that your battery is ready to power your adventures whenever you need it. But, if you have any concerns or issues regarding your car or truck’s battery, Tracy’s Tire Pros is here to help.