A battery is the life force of your vehicle. It provides the electrical energy necessary to start the engine and power the electronics. However, car battery failure can occur unexpectedly, leaving you stranded and needing a jump start or replacement. Understanding the most common causes of car battery failure can help you take preventive measures to avoid unexpected breakdowns and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Below are the most common causes of car battery failure.
Human Negligence
Although external factors can contribute to car battery failure, human oversight often takes center stage. One prevalent mistake is leaving interior lights, radios, and infotainment systems on when the engine is inactive, resulting in battery power depletion and the risk of early failure. Furthermore, even leaving car doors partially open can activate interior or dashboard lights, leading to prolonged battery drain and a reduced lifespan.
End of a Battery's Life Cycle
Car batteries, just like humans, have a finite lifespan. Over time, car batteries naturally degrade, leading to diminished capacity and decreased performance. Car batteries have an average lifespan ranging between 3 and 5 years. Therefore, it is crucial to keep tabs on your battery's age and consider replacement when it approaches the conclusion of its anticipated lifespan.
Extreme Temperatures
Extreme temperatures can significantly impact the lifespan of your car battery. In cold weather, the chilly temperature hampers the battery's chemical reactions, diminishing its capacity to provide a strong charge. In hot climates, the high temperatures accelerate the battery's chemical reactions, leading to faster deterioration. The best solution is to use a battery insulation kit or park your vehicle in a garage to shield it from the elements.
Corrosion
The corrosive nature of battery acid can impact the performance of your car's electrical system. The battery terminals, which serve as the pathway for the battery to deliver and receive charge from the alternator, can corrode to the point they can't pass adequate charge to power the car's electrical system. To increase the battery's capacity to deliver charge and get charged by the alternator, it's essential to remove the corrosion build-up and ensure clean terminals regularly.
Understanding the common causes of car battery failure and taking preventive measures can save you from the inconvenience and frustration of a dead battery. A well-maintained battery is essential in keeping your car reliable and avoiding inconvenient breakdowns on the road.
Remember, should you require a fresh car battery, we welcome you to bring your vehicle to our auto repair shop. Or feel free to fill out our online appointment form!
Our skilled technicians will guarantee that your car receives a dependable battery, ensuring your smooth journey ahead and providing you absolute peace of mind on the road.