How to Make Your Car Battery Last Longer
Car batteries last, on average, 3 to 5 years. Depending on certain conditions, like weather and how you drive your car, some batteries can last up to 6 years! So how can you help your car battery last longer? Try these tips:
Have Your Car Battery Tested Twice A Year
We recommend you leave this to the professionals. Batteries contain sulfuric acid that can cause severe skin burns, difficulties breathing if inhaled, blindness, and even explosions. For that reason, your AAA Mobile Battery Technician will come to you to safely test your battery and determine if it is fully charged and in good condition. We recommend having your battery tested at least twice a year to avoid getting unexpectedly stranded.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures
Nothing kills a car battery faster than extreme hot or cold temperatures. High heat can cause the fluid (battery acid) to evaporate, which decreases the lifespan of your battery. On the other hand, freezing temperatures will cause the battery to discharge, which leads to a dead battery. If the battery acid freezes, the case can be damaged. Therefore, during extreme temperatures, try to park your car in a garage or carport to offer protection from the elements.
Go For a Long Drive or Purchase a Battery Tender
Quick trips in the car prevent your battery from fully charging and contribute to shortening its life. Driving longer distances helps to maintain your car battery’s power. If your lifestyle does not allow for frequent longer drives, or if your car stays parked for long periods of time, consider purchasing a trickle charger such as a Battery Tender. This small device plugs into a standard AC outlet and transfers a “trickle” of power to your car battery to keep it operational over long periods of inactivity.
Turn Off All Lights When You Finish Driving
The most common reason for a dead battery is from lights being left on in your car. Your headlights, along with lights from your trunk, glove box, door, or other interior lights can take a heavy toll on your battery. Power loss from your lights, known as parasitic drains, will slowly drain the power from your battery until it won’t start. Although the battery can sometimes be restarted with a jump, parasitic drains shorten
battery life.
By using these steps, you can help get the most life out of your car battery. However, sometimes, despite our best efforts, a car battery may still die. Should that happen, AAA will come to you to deliver and install a new battery. Whether at your home, office, or a parking lot,AAA Mobile Battery Service is here for you when you need us.