Your car's battery serves as the life force behind your vehicle, providing the necessary power for the many systems that allow its proper function. We've all encountered the frustrating scenario of a car refusing to start due to a dead battery. While a simple jump-start often resolves the issue, there are instances when a complete battery replacement is necessary. To prevent unexpected situations like this, we’d like to share information on how your car’s battery works and offer some tips on how to prolong its useful life.

How does a car battery work?

Although the battery in your car may look like a simple rectangular box, it plays an essential role in powering all the electrical components of your vehicle. In essence, the battery converts chemical energy into electrical energy, which is then used to power your car and its accessories. It’s also responsible for stabilizing the voltage so that your car's engine can run smoothly.

How can I better care for my car battery?

While the average lifespan of a typical car battery ranges from three to five years, proper care can keep yours at the high end of that span. To help your battery go the distance for the long haul, consider the following practices. First, minimize short rides as they prevent the battery from attaining a full charge. Also make sure to check that the battery is securely seated, since excessive movement can lead to internal damage or short circuits.

Regularly inspecting your battery for corrosion buildup is crucial as well. Over time, the terminals can corrode, so keeping them clean can prolong battery life. All you have to do is dip a toothbrush in a solution of water and baking soda and use it to gently scrub the terminals. Afterwards, rinse off the mixture with cold water from a spray bottle, then dry the terminals thoroughly with a clean cloth. Of course, you can always have our service department take care of this battery maintenance for you.

What are the warning signs that indicate the need for service?

Several signs suggest that your battery requires attention. The most common indication is when the engine becomes slow to turn over, or it flat out refuses to start. We’ve already mentioned corrosion around the battery terminals, but bloating of the battery case is another physical symptom: a bulge in the battery box suggests exposure to excessive heat. You might even notice a bad smell, similar to rotten eggs. This sulfuric odor comes from battery leakage, which is also the source of corrosion around the battery posts.

How often should I have my battery checked?

Unless you suspect an issue, it's generally advisable to have your battery checked around the three-year mark, as this is typically when they start to decline. After the initial check-up of a three-year-old battery, you should have it inspected annually or even more often.

Where can I check the age of my battery?

The easiest method to determine your car battery's age is by examining the four- or five-digit date code located on the case cover. Each month corresponds to a specific letter (A for January, B for February, C for March, and so on), while a number indicates the year (9 for 2019, 1 for 2021, etc.). Of course, you can simply make a note of the date that you purchased the new battery.