Car batteries are supposed to last you for years, but there are some things you can do to shorten that time. We don’t suggest doing those things. Instead, implement these tips into your driving and maintenance routines to extend your car’s battery life span and save yourself some money and stress.
Take a Joyride
One of the worst things you can do to your battery is let it sit unused for long periods of time. Paradoxically, your car battery can sometimes last a shorter length of time if you don’t use it. If you have a car you’re not actively using throughout the week, take it out for a joyride every now so it can stretch its metaphorical legs.
Beware of Warm Weather
Hot weather can wipe out a car battery quicker than most things. After sitting under a hot sun, your battery only gets hotter when you run your engine. This high heat can evaporate the battery’s fluids, forcing you to replace it sooner. Try to keep your car in a shaded area such as a garage or under a car cover. Both your car’s battery and paint job will thank you later.
Turn Off Your Electronics
If you’re in the habit of leaving your lights or radio on after you turn off your engine, try to cut back on that. Running your electronics without your car started causes your battery to drain. Sometimes this may not be an option, such as running your air conditioning in the summer without wasting gas if you’re waiting for someone, but you should try to cut back on it as much as possible. At the very least, be diligent about making sure your headlights are turned off when you don’t need them.
Watch for Buildup
Every now and then, check your car battery’s terminals for signs of corrosion. Make sure your engine is off and cool before you lift the hood. While you’re down there, check your battery for cracks, warping, or any other signs of damage. If you notice corrosion or buildup on your battery’s terminals, which is where it’s connected to the rest of your vehicle, you can give them a good scrubbing. Just make sure your battery is completely dried off before you operate your vehicle.
Cut Down on Short Drives
Making frequent short trips can wipe your battery out. If you don’t drive your car long enough for the battery to fully charge, it can add stress that shortens its life span. Driving like this doesn’t give your alternator enough time to fully charge your battery. We suggest that once a month, you take your car for an extended charge so that it has time to operate at full capacity and maintain its own health.
Try to use more of these smart car tips in your maintenance routine to increase the life of your battery and your car’s health as a whole. Remember that the more you take care of your car, the more it will take care of you. For any questions about taking care of your GM vehicle’s battery, make sure to visit us at Cable Dahmer of Topeka in Topeka, KS!
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