7 tips to prolong the life of your car battery
There are a number of things you can do to prolong your car battery's performance, saving yourself time and money. By performing the simple car battery maintenance procedures below regularly, you can reduce your risk of having a flat battery. However, car batteries do have a limited life and on average will last around 3 years. Once a battery beings to fail after 3 years of age, it will rarely respond to re-charging.
1. Keep the car battery case clean
Use hot, soapy water and dry well. Caution: this procedure will permanently stain concrete and other hard surfaces if not protected. Ensure battery terminals are cleaned at every service.
2. Secure your car battery
Vibrations can damage the battery plates. Inspect battery terminals regularly; loose connections can cause breakdowns. Short runs and infrequent use without regular charging will run down your battery.
3. Check the battery charging rate
Have the charging rate checked at every major service. Both under and over-charging will reduce car battery life.
4. Service your engine regularly
Poor engine condition can overload the battery and reduce its life.
5. Avoid draining
When your car battery is discharged by leaving the lights or accessories on, revive it with a slow charge. Frequent draining will reduce a battery’s life.
6. Check the battery electrolyte levels
If you have a low maintenance car battery fitted, you can check the electrolyte fluid levels. Carefully unscrew the vent caps and check the fluid covers the battery cell elements.
7. Don't jump start a flat car battery
Don’t attempt a jump-start as it can damage the electronics in many modern cars. If you have a flat battery, call RAC Battery Services on 13 11 11 or visit any RAC Auto Services centre for assistance.