5 Tips on Vehicle Battery Maintenance

Your car battery is a crucial part of your vehicle operating system, as it helps the car start up and continue to run. It is also full of toxic chemicals that have to be carefully disposed of, so it’s important to keep it in the best shape possible to reduce cost and environmental impact. Here are five tips to help you with that goal.

Tip 1: Watch Your Cell Voltage

Your mechanic or auto parts store can do this easily. Check the voltage level every 3 months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. A fully charged battery should have a 12.5-12.6 volt charge. If it’s too low, your tester will have suggestions for maintenance or replacement.

Tip 2: Keep Your Battery Clean

A dirty battery will have a negative effect on the charge. Take off the clamps and remove any dirt, grease, and oxidation. Every six to eight months the battery terminals should be scrubbed with a wire brush.

Tip 3: Insulate Your Garage, and/or the Battery Itself

If possible, it’s great to keep your car in an insulated garage. This helps keep your battery warm in the winter. You also want to avoid higher temperatures, which can drain the battery fluid more quickly than lower temps. You can also insulate the battery itself fairly cheaply. If your car battery already has an insulator, keep an eye on its placement and make sure it stays undamaged.

Tip 4: Add Water

Check the water level of your battery every few months. If it’s lower than the bottom of the refill hole, add some distilled water with a funnel.

Tip 5: Check the Placement

Make sure your battery tray is clean and the battery is sitting precisely. You don’t want the battery to move around, tip over, or bump into other engine parts.

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