How To Extend Your Car Battery's Life

The average car battery lasts somewhere between 1 and 3 years, but there are ways to extend its lifespan. Below are some battery care tips to help you maximize the life of your car battery, reduce your risk of experiencing a flat battery, and save yourself some money.

Tips to maximize the life of your car battery

• Drive your vehicle regularly. Make sure you drive your vehicle regularly to maintain the required level of charge in your battery. Leaving your vehicle stationary for an extended period depletes the battery’s charge.
• Top up battery fluid when it falls below the minimum level as indicated on the battery. Use battery water bought from a petrol station or workshop, DO NOT use tap water.
• Make sure battery terminals are always clean and free from corrosion. Use warm water and a toothbrush to remove the corrosion. When it dried, put petroleum jelly around each terminal to prevent future buildup.
• Inspect battery terminals regularly. Make sure all connections to the terminals and grounding are tight.
• Secure your car battery. Check that your battery is secure at all times, as vibrations can cause the battery to fail.
• Avoid overusing your gadgets when your car is not running. Using the  radio, DVD player, lights, headlights or other accessories when your car is off can actually drain your battery life a lot faster.
• Also check the condition of the alternator. The alternator is responsible for recharging your battery when the engine is running. Problematic alternator leads to shorter battery life.

Hopefully the tips above can help you make your car battery last longer or at least prevent it from premature death.

Image courtesy of stockimages / FreeDigitalPhotos.net