Keep your battery energised this winter

Winter time notoriously wreaks havoc on car batteries, even on the North Coast.

As temperatures drop, the chemical reactions within batteries slow down, making it harder for the engine to ignite.

This puts extra strain on the battery, causing it to work harder than normal.

But it’s not just the weather causing problems for one’s battery.

Modern-day conveniences we rely on in our cars, for example seat warmers and electronic device chargers, all demand power from the battery, further draining its reserves, warns the South African Automobile Association.

This is especially problematic for older batteries that are already struggling to hold a charge.

To prevent the frustration of a dead battery in the dead of winter, there are steps one can take to ensure your battery stays healthy.

Simple measures such as ensuring your car is properly powered down when parked, checking for corrosion or loose cables, and keeping up with routine maintenance can make a big difference.

How to prolong the life of your car battery:

* Make sure your car powers down properly when parking
When it’s dark and cold outside, it’s easier to focus on rushing inside the house instead of ensuring your car is properly powered down. Make sure the headlights and cabin lights are switched off, and that the doors are completely closed. Any light left on will drain the battery overnight. Also unplug accessories, including cigarette lighters and socket chargers, so that they don’t “steal” power when you turn your car on the next time.

* Check for corrosion or loose cables
Corrosion around your battery’s terminals can negatively affect the connection between the battery’s cell and its cables. If the terminals are corroded or the cables are not tightly fitted, the battery won’t be able to successfully transfer its energy to the engine.

* Avoid surprises by applying routine maintenance
The most effective strategy for keeping your car battery running during winter is with regular maintenance. A car battery should be checked every four years. Do not try to extend the life of your battery for longer than it should.

* Battery storage and winter care
Keeping your vehicle in a garage when not in use will help to protect the battery from the effects of low winter temperatures. It’s also important not to keep your car standing idle for too long. Ideally it should be driven at least every three days to keep the battery at its optimum level.

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