Tips for Keeping Your Battery Long-Lasting

The battery is one of the most important parts of your vehicle. It powers many different parts, such as the windshield wipers and power windows, and assists with other integral parts, like the engine. That’s why it’s so important to take care of it and make it last as long as possible.

In this guide, we at Boardwalk Honda will go over important battery topics, including how long they should last, what affects them, and how you can extend their lifespan. Drivers in Atlantic City, Egg Harbor, and beyond should read ahead to learn more!

How Long a Car Battery Typically Lasts

How long your car battery lasts depends on a variety of factors, such as the car you have and how you drive it. The battery in your vehicle is rechargeable. Every time you drive, the alternator makes energy that recharges the battery. After a while, your battery will no longer be able to hold energy.

Typically, it takes between five and seven years for a car battery to lose its ability to hold a charge. Sometimes, car batteries can even last up to 10 years. However, this is based on everyday driving habits. Abnormal driving habits and other secondary elements can cause your battery to deteriorate quicker than normal.

What Affects the Life of Your Car Battery

There are many different factors that can affect how long your battery last, starting with your driving habits, which includes habitual short trips. Driving for only short periods of time doesn’t allow your battery to charge properly. Another habit that kills your battery quicker is overusing electronic elements.

Where you drive is also just as important as how you drive. If you frequently drive in extreme hot and cold temperatures, this puts a real strain on your battery.

Tips for Extending Your Car Battery’s Life

While there are many things that affect your battery, there are ways to counteract them and preserve the lifespan of your car battery. You can extend your car battery’s life by…

• Turning off electronic features when you’re idling. When your engine is off, all this power comes straight from the battery.
• Trying to limit short rides as much as possible. Longer trips charge the battery better.
• Checking on your battery frequently. Corrosion can build up on the battery and prevent it from working properly.
• Double checking that all lights are off before getting out of the vehicle. Leaving headlights on when the engine is off can drain your battery in record time.
• Making sure that your battery is secure. If you get under the hood to clean the battery and don’t tighten it back up, it could vibrate enough to short circuit or cause significant damage.

Still Have Car Battery Questions?

The service team at Boardwalk Honda hopes this car battery guide gave you all the information you were looking for. Drivers in Atlantic City and Egg Harbor who still have questions about car batteries should give us a call. If you think it may be time for a new battery, schedule your service appointment today!