Your car’s battery is supposed to last an average of 3 to 5 years, but like the human body´s heart, there are certain bad habits that can shorten its life. Here are some basic Do´s and Don’ts you should be aware of when it comes to taking good care of the most important part of your vehicle:

WHEN STARTING THE ENGINE

Don´t: Do not leave any lights (headlights, taillights, cabin lights), radio, seat warmers, air conditioner, chargers, audio, navigation, or communication systems on while you are starting your engine or when the vehicle isn´t running as they use the battery voltage and will drain it.

Do: Turn off all electric and electronic accessories before you start your engine, while the engine is not running and when you exit your vehicle.

WHEN DRIVING YOUR CAR

Don´t: Do not drive short distances often as doing so does not give enough time for the alternator to recharge from starting, forcing the battery to make an extra effort to regain power and wearing it out before time.

Do: Drive your car frequently and take extended trips. If this is impossible, a good alternative would be to buy a portable automatic battery charger to maintain an adequate voltage.

SECURING YOUR BATTERY IN PLACE

Don´t: Do not ignore any sound or alarm symptoms:  if your battery vibrates, means it is not properly fastened and it will cause damage to the internal components, reducing its life.

Do: Tighten de clamp nuts enough to keep the battery properly held down. Lose battery cables can also interfere with its well-functioning. Be sure they are in the right place.

AVOIDING EXTREME TEMPERATURES

Don´t: Do not expose your vehicle to extreme cold (under 10 degrees Fahrenheit) or heat (over 100 degrees Fahrenheit) as these temperatures can cause lead sulfate crystals to build up, damaging the battery.

Do: Try as possible to avoid your vehicle´s exposure to extreme weather by keeping it in a garage or in the shade.

WHEN LEAVING YOUR VEHICLE FOR A LONG TIME

Don´t: Don´t leave your vehicle for long periods of time without using it, as the battery will lose its charge and won´t start up again.

Do: Find a way to have your car driven around from time to time. Otherwise, you will have to buy an automatic battery charger.

CLEANING YOUR BATTERY

Don´t: Do not let it go too long without cleaning your battery; over time, it will corrode and accumulate gride and dirt, causing it to discharge and creating mild short circuits.

Do: Keep your battery dry, clean, and gunk-free. Check the battery itself and its connections. Disconnect the cables to remove corrosion and any substances accumulated.

TESTING YOUR BATTERY:

Don´t: Do not rely solely on a multimeter or a voltmeter measurement, as they will give you a quick reading of your battery´s condition, but are not as reliable as professional equipment.  

Do: Take your vehicle to a professional auto center near you. Check the battery voltage or have it checked every once a month.

SIGNS THAT YOUR BATTERY IS BEGINNING TO DIE

• Difficulty to start
• Weakening systems like alarms and other systems
• Flickering lights