The car battery is the component that allows you to start the engine and power the spark plugs to move the vehicle forward, thanks to the electricity it supplies to the spark plugs. Most batteries have an operating life of 5 or 7 years. Regular maintenance of the vehicle in the workshop allows you to extend the useful life of the battery to the maximum, and there are measures that can be applied to improve this result, in particular by carrying out regular maintenance even outside the workshop, checking the status of the battery, keeping it clean. and recharging it as needed.
Steps
Step 1. Find the battery inside the engine compartment
Look for a lead box contained within a plastic wrap. The battery itself is recognizable by the contacts and electrical cables that branch off from it
Step 2. Check the water level in the battery every two or three months, which must reach the level indicated in the battery itself
- Remove the cap and check the liquid level inside. In some types of batteries there is no cap as they do not contain liquid inside.
- As needed, add distilled water to the battery. Use a funnel to keep the water from overflowing, and be careful to stop at the right time so as not to exceed the fill limit.
Step 3. Clean the contacts with a wire brush every six to eight months
- Remove the cables from the contacts by carefully unhooking them from their housing.
- Sprinkle a mixture of baking soda and distilled water on the wire brush, and scrub gently for a shiny effect and to remove any acid deposits.
- Reposition the cables on the contacts, using a rubber-headed hammer if necessary.
Step 4. Coat the battery with high temperature resistant grease
The grease serves to protect the battery from rust and corrosion.
Step 5. Every time you take your car to the workshop, have the voltage checked with professional equipment
A fully charged battery should deliver approximately 12, 5, or 12, 6 volts.
In between maintenance in the workshop and the next, have the battery checked by a qualified spare parts shop, where you can recharge the battery and get advice on how to keep it at its best
Step 6. If present, check the battery insulation
This is present in some models to protect the battery from excessively high temperatures, which risk drying the battery fluid quickly. The insulation should be correctly positioned and have no cracks or holes.
Step 7. Take the car regularly to the workshop for inspection and maintenance
The best maintenance schedule includes checks every 5,000 kilometers or every three months, whichever comes first.
Advice
Talk to your trusted mechanic and get advice on how to best maintain the battery, based on the climate in your area, vehicle model and battery type
Warnings
- Use only distilled water to fill the battery. Tap water contains minerals that are harmful to the battery, which impair its lifespan.
- Wear protective goggles and rubber gloves to avoid possible contact with acid.
