car-maintenance-2-300x198

 

During the summer, you will want to inspect your vehicle regularly. The heat of the summer will likely take its toll on the car battery too. Contrary to popular belief, summer highs rather than winter lows pose the greater threat to battery life.

 

Eventually all batteries have to be replaced. Excessive heat and overcharging are the two main reasons for shortened battery life. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, thus damaging the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, leading to slow death for a battery.

 

You can help ensure the overall condition of your battery if you follow some few tips on how to care for it over the summer. Make sure that the electrical system is charging at the correct rate, overcharging can damage a battery as quickly as undercharging. Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt becomes a conductor, which drains battery power. Further, as corrosion accumulates on battery terminals it becomes an insulator, inhibiting current flow.

 

Some driving habits such as frequent engine on and off cycles will cause more wear on the starter than a simple back and forth to work. Other factors include driving and weather conditions, mileage, vehicle age, and excessive electrical draws like in-vehicle entertainment systems. Check the battery if you notice headlights and interior lights dim, accessories that fail to operate, or the check engine or battery light illuminated. Any time there is an issue, make sure to contact us so we can inspect the vehicle for you. This can help you to have a pleasant driving experience.