Maintenance Techniques: Practical Methods for Extending the Service Life of Automotive Batteries

As the power source for vehicle starting and electrical equipment, the service life of car batteries is greatly affected by usage habits and maintenance methods. Mastering correct maintenance techniques can effectively avoid the embarrassment of losing power halfway. When using a car in daily life, it is necessary to avoid driving at full speed for long periods of time or short distances. The generator’s power generation is low at full speed, which makes it difficult to meet the charging needs of the battery. Short distance driving can lead to frequent charging and discharging of the battery, accelerating plate vulcanization and shortening the service life. It is recommended to drive at high or medium speed for at least 30 minutes per week to fully charge the battery.
After parking, it is necessary to promptly turn off the vehicle’s electrical equipment, such as headlights, ambient lighting, sound system, etc. Many car owners neglect to turn off their headlights, resulting in overnight battery depletion, and in severe cases, even damaging the battery plates. In addition, avoid using external devices such as car refrigerators, mobile phone chargers, etc. for a long time when the vehicle is turned off, as these devices will continue to consume battery power and increase the risk of power loss.
Regularly checking the battery condition is also essential. The engine hood can be opened monthly to check for oxidation or looseness in the battery terminals. If white or green oxide is found on the terminals, they should be sanded clean and coated with a special protective agent to prevent further oxidation. At the same time, observe whether the battery casing has bulges or leaks. If any abnormalities occur, replace it in a timely manner to avoid electrolyte leakage and corrosion of engine compartment components. In addition, in cold winter, low temperatures can reduce battery capacity. It is recommended to choose an underground garage or a sunny location when parking, and if necessary, install a battery insulation cover to improve performance in low-temperature environments.