Is your car battery a bit of a mystery? If so, you’re not alone. Most people know that batteries provide the power needed to start their cars, but that’s where their knowledge ends. Find out more about your car battery, so you’ll have a better understanding of what’s going on under the hood.
Car Use Impacts the Longevity of the Battery
Car batteries generally last for 3-5 years. If your car batteries need to be replaced more often than that, it might be due to how you use your car. If you park your vehicle for long periods of time, the battery will self-discharge. That can reduce its longevity. Also, if you tend to make lots of short trips, the battery won’t have time to recharge fully. This can also reduce longevity. Fortunately, you don’t have to change your driving or parking style to extend the battery’s life. You can use a maintenance charger to charge your battery when your car isn’t in use. This will keep it charged, extending its life span.
Excessive Vibration Reduces the Life Span
If your battery experiences excessive vibration, the parts will break down, reducing their life span. Your battery’s hold-down hardware is designed to hold the battery in place. However, the hardware can become loose or damaged over time, allowing the battery to shake and vibrate. Check your hold-down hardware regularly and replace it as needed to extend the life of your battery.
You Might Not Know if Your Battery is Weak
If you have a weak battery, you might notice some common signs, such as the charging warning light or slow cranking. However, other signs aren’t nearly as noticeable. If your battery is three years old, get it tested each year. Then, you will know if your battery is weak before it dies.
Batteries Aren’t Universal
You have to make sure you purchase the correct battery for your car. Batteries come in different sizes, configurations, and ratings. You need to buy a battery with the proper:
- Physical size
- Terminal rating
- Cold-cranking amps or amp-hour rating
If you choose the wrong battery, it could damage the electrical system and surrounding components. A professional can help you choose the right battery if you need help.
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Batteries Can Lose Charge While on the Sales Shelf
If a battery spends too much time wasting away on a shelf, it will lose some of its charge power. Then, it won’t last as long when installed in your vehicle. Buying a battery from a high-volume seller will allow you to avoid this problem. That way, you will get a new battery that is fully charged and ready to go.
Now that you know more about your car battery, you have the information necessary to make it last longer. You also want a vehicle that will last for years and years. You can get just that at Honda North in Butler, Pennsylvania. We have a full lineup of reliable and durable Hondas for you to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect vehicle. You can also look at our pre-owned offerings. Stop by today and take a test drive.