Cars wont run without batteries. This is a fact which is hard to ignore by all. People mobility on such large scale would not have been possible without the car battery technology. A car breakdown seems to be the most unwelcome happening when in a hurry. Germany that gave the world great car brands like Mercedes, BMW, Audi and more, conducted on survey on car breakdown and the findings were that low battery resulted in 40 percent of them. Car battery maintenance is an important part of car upkeep.
Batteries contain highly corrosive material known as sulphuric acid and electrolyte. This combination works together to produce gases that discharge electric charge to help start a car. As the process involves production and explosion of gases in the battery container, it is stored in well ventilated place.
Climate change too has an influence on car batteries condition. If in freezing cold conditions, batteries tend to die, hot climates can cause short bursts. A badly maintained battery makes car breakdown is inevitable. So before you plan a long trip there are some simple steps to check the condition of the battery.
A clicking sound
If the battery has been in use for a very long time, the battery will have used a lot of energy. Some of the common instances are when the car lights are not switched off for the night. In such times battery discharge is common. It makes a clicking sound when tried to restart.
If you are parking your car for along period, it is best to disconnect the battery from the car. This will help prevent unnecessary discharging. Ensure that the connector is kept away from the terminal where it will not be able to come in contact with the post.
Loss of voltage
Loss of voltage results in the battery running flat. Test the voltage at the contacts of the alternator while the car is kept in running mode. You should be careful to use all protective gear in case of an accident. Maintain a regular battery check up schedule probably every week or fortnight. A regular overnight charge of the battery will help put it back in shape.
Old Batteries
All batteries come with a lifespan. Most batteries come with a life span of 3-5 years. If your car battery is more than three years old, chances are that it is near the end of its lifecycle. Get it checked by technicians and if you detect a problem get the batteries replaced.
Battery Connection
A good connection on the car battery reduced loss of voltage, helps start quickly and prevent breakdowns. Ensure that the alternators are well connected are well. Check for connection with proper testers having simple green and red indicators.
External elements
Manual transmission cars are great as they can run a car even on a low level of battery. Cars with automatic transmission need to be jump started to start the car. If an external power is introduced in the car, it will refuse to start. It is best to replace
car batteries.
Always use protective goggles and clothes while check the battery system. Remember it is a corrosive system that can explode if not handles properly.
