Tips for Extending Your Car’s Battery Life

Dealing with a car that won’t start can be a frustrating experience for any driver. In many cases, a dead battery is the source of many common engine problems. To avoid the hassles caused by a dead battery, there are several steps you can take to keep your battery in peak working condition. Here are three tips for extending your car’s battery life:

Clean Regularly

To extend the life of your battery, you should clean it on a regular basis. Corrosion on the terminals can prevent the current from passing through the battery to the battery cables. Other dirt and buildup on the battery housing can also drain battery power. To ensure the longest possible battery life, you can use a soft brush to clean off the terminals and outer casing when they become dirty.

Insulate the Exterior

Extreme hot and cold temperatures will drain the power from your battery. To protect your battery from the elements, you can invest in an insulation blanket. This insulating material will wrap around the outside of your battery, keeping it from ever getting too warm or cold. By insulating your battery, you will ensure that your battery does not wear out during extreme weather conditions.

Plan Your Trips Carefully

Starting your car is one of the most power-draining activities for your battery. Especially during hot or cold seasons, you can extend the life of your battery by planning your trips carefully, and starting your vehicle as infrequently as possible. Try to combine shorter trips into one longer outing, and, if possible, walk or bike if you are going a short distance.

To learn more about how to care for your car’s battery, or to have your old battery replaced, contact Murray’s Auto Clinic. Our auto repair center provides the Silver Spring, MD area with convenient and reliable vehicle maintenance services. To schedule an appointment with our expert mechanics, call us at 301-585-7557.