Car Battery Maintenance 101

Published on: 22 November 2018 Last Updated on: 24 July 2024

Here’s a fact to get the ball rolling; Did you know? Majority of car breakdowns are due to a simple battery failure. Car Battery Maintenance can reduce the chances of your car breaking down. That’s right! Batteries, an invention of the 1800s still very much useful today. Power windows, music system, headlights, auxiliaries and what not, car batteries are an essential part of an automobile.

A car battery has a limited lifespan, a well-maintained car battery should last you around 3-5 years, But many find that they have to replace their car battery every 1 to 2 years. A poorly maintained battery loses its capacity to hold a charge and eventually fails. So, if you want to avoid the inconvenience of an unexpected breakdown simultaneously ensuring a prolonged battery life, we are here with 5 simple tips on car battery maintenance.

1. Always keep the battery terminals corrosion-free:

One of the most recurrent problems with battery is corrosion build-up on the negative and positive terminals. Corrosion acts as a barrier between the battery and the vehicle thereby breaking the connection.

A simple fix for this can be a light scrubbing with an abrasive pad to dislodge the crud build-up from the terminals. Car battery maintenance can minimize the chances of corrosion.

Top Tip: add a dab of vaseline to the terminals to prevent further corrosion

2. Do not operate any electronics during startup:

When the engine is running, the car alternator generates electricity and charges the car battery, but when the engine is off, the car relies on battery power only.

So, it is important to limit the use of any electronics just before or while starting the car to avoid unnecessary load on the battery.

Top Tip: switch off the AC and the music system before cranking the car to avoid damage to the battery.

3. Full charge your car battery at least once every month:

Did you know? Your car draws power from the battery even when the car is off. This is required for the anti-theft system to function.

Make a habit of charging your car battery every month or two to avoid a dead battery situation. This will also help the battery maintain a healthy charge density and prolong its life. Invest in a good battery charger for your vehicle if you don’t wish to visit a garage every month.

4. Check your car’s alternator for car battery maintenance:

An Alternator is a very crucial component responsible for charging the car battery when the engine is running. So, it becomes very important to ensure a functional alternator for a healthy battery life. Get the alternator checked every time you visit a garage.

Telltale signs of a failing alternator include; battery warning light on the dashboard, flickering headlights, engine cranking issues, and other electronic failures.

5. Do not overload your car battery with accessories:

Auxiliary fog lamps, high power music system, novelty lighting. These are all power hungry accessories draining the life out of your car battery. Every car battery has a load limit and can take only much before failing. Car battery maintenance can make your car move faster.

So, go easy with those fancy lights you’ve just bought off Amazon, and check if your battery is capable of taking the increased loads.

Bonus Tip: Always top-up car battery with distilled water ONLY:

In this day and age of “No-Maintenance” batteries, you don’t have to periodically refill the batteries with water anymore. But still, all car batteries require a specific level of distilled water to function optimally. Distilled water is required for the proper flow of electricity in the battery. Using normal tap water which contains metal ions can permanently damage the electrodes causing a degradation in charging capacity of a battery. Low water level can damage the cells inside the battery causing a failure.

Visit your nearest hardware store for a litre of distilled battery water.

Read Also:

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

What Does Elon Musk Have In His Vehicle Fleet?

As we know, Elon Musk, the enigmatic entrepreneur and visionary behind companies such as Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, is famous for his relentless pursuit of innovation, which enables him to push the boundaries of technology. As an extraordinary individual and one of the most influential figures in business, it's natural to wonder which vehicle models Elon Musk prefers to drive. Does he prioritize practicality or luxury? Let's take a peek inside the businessman's garage and explore the fascinating vehicles that he chooses to drive. Tesla Roadster Let's start with the incredible Tesla Roadster, a true technological and design marvel. This model is the first all-electric sports car to hit the road. So, it's not a surprise that Elon drives this vehicle often. The Roadster's specs also deserve special attention. While the first version of this electric sports car was released in 2008, the most recent configuration, released in 2022, is truly an engineering masterpiece in the automotive world. Along with a sleek design that makes this vehicle a stunning embodiment of elegance on wheels, it also has an astonishing acceleration time of 1.9 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h (0-60 mph)! The electric motor produces 10,000 Nm of torque, allowing for a top speed of more than 250 mph (400 km/h). What truly distinguishes the Roadster is its incredible range, reaching up to over 620 miles (1,000 km) on a single charge. Porsche 911 Beyond his electric vehicle ventures, Elon Musk has also been spotted driving a Porsche 911, a legendary sports car known for its timeless design and exhilarating performance. This vehicle delivers an exceptional driving experience with its impressive specifications and features. Boasting a timeless design, the 911 combines elegance and aerodynamic efficiency. Under the hood, it offers a variety of powerful engines, ranging from the 3.0L option with up to 450 hp to the 4.0L motor with 520 hp. The Porsche 911 stands as a symbol of automotive excellence, combining timeless design, powerful performance, advanced technology, and a luxurious driving experience. This car continues to captivate enthusiasts and embody the spirit of Porsche's dedication to engineering mastery. Tesla Model X Here we have one of the world's first electric crossovers that combines both sporty performance and family comfort. If we speak about Elon's automotive fleet, the businessman owns the 2016 Model X configuration. In addition, the vehicle can carry up to seven passengers. With its unique and luxurious interior, the Model X immediately became the star of car shows and exhibitions. The Model X is capable of covering up to 300 miles (475 km) on a single charge and reaching speeds of up to 60 mph (100 km/h) in 2.7 seconds. The car received five stars in the NHTSA safety rating, becoming the first with such ratings in the SUV class. Tesla Model S Performance The Model S Performance takes the combination of convenience, power, and efficiency to new heights, setting remarkable standards for electric vehicles. With its astounding acceleration capabilities, this car can reach speeds of up to 60 mph (100 km/h) in less than 2.5 seconds, providing an exhilarating driving experience. Furthermore, it offers an impressive range of up to 400 miles (652 km) on a single charge, ensuring long-distance journeys without the need for frequent recharging. This Tesla EV goes beyond its exceptional performance by prioritizing passenger comfort and versatility. Inside its cabin, this vehicle comfortably accommodates five adult passengers and two children, making it an ideal choice for families or group travel. The addition of an all-wheel-drive system further enhances its capabilities, allowing you to confidently conquer any road condition, be it slippery surfaces or challenging terrain. The Model S Performance truly embodies the perfect balance of speed and adaptability, leveling up what electric vehicles can offer. Lotus Esprit Perhaps the most intriguing addition to Elon Musk's garage is the famous Lotus Esprit submarine car from the James Bond film “The Spy Who Loved Me.” Musk, an avid James Bond fan, purchased the iconic vehicle in 2013. While it may not be for a daily drive, it reflects Musk's adventurous side. The legendary Lotus Esprit, produced by British manufacturer Lotus Cars, showcases a combination of sleek design, exhilarating performance, and agile handling. Its distinctive appearance sets the vehicle apart from other sports cars, featuring a low-slung profile and aerodynamic body lines that convey a sense of speed even at a standstill. Under the hood, the Lotus Esprit offers a range of powerful engines that deliver impressive performance. From turbocharged four-cylinder engines to V8 motors, the Esprit provides great acceleration and a fantastic driving experience. The interior of the Lotus Esprit is focused on the driver, providing a cockpit-like environment with supportive seats, intuitive controls, and clear visibility. Despite its sports car nature, the Esprit offers a level of comfort and refinement that allows for enjoyable long-distance driving. Tesla Cybertruck Let's now turn our attention to the most unusual vehicle in Elon's garage, the 2020 Tesla Cybertruck. This vehicle appears to have arrived from the future to demonstrate that technological possibilities are limitless. The Tesla Cybertruck is a cutting-edge all-electric pickup truck that challenges conventional automotive design. Its body is made of ultra-hard 30X cold-rolled stainless steel, which guarantees exceptional durability and resistance to any damage. The Cybertruck has an impressive performance, with 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration in as little as 2.9 seconds and a towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds (6.35 t). The Cybertruck's spacious interior can seat up to six passengers and is outfitted with cutting-edge technology and luxurious touches. The Tesla Cybertruck is set to revolutionize the pickup truck industry with its cutting-edge design, robust capabilities, and commitment to sustainability. Summing Up Elon Musk's garage showcases his passion for cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and automotive excellence. His automotive preferences, including his own creations at Tesla, classic sports cars, and even a famous movie prop, reflect his diverse interests and vision for the future. Through his innovative electric vehicle ventures, Musk hasn't only pushed the automotive industry forward but also inspired a global shift toward sustainable transportation. Read Also: Why You Need Classic Car Insurance? 7 Reasons Why Teenagers Pay Extra For Car Insurance

Important Tips to Maintain your Luxury Car

Luxury cars are every man’s dream. They offer an unparalleled driving experience, taking you down the smooth roads in a breeze. These mean machines are not only beautiful but certainly, attract some head-turns and awe by people on the road. However, as breathtaking as they may be, luxury cars cannot be afforded by everyone. Even if you can buy one, then its maintenance costs can drive even the most ardent car fan crazy. These impeccable machines need attention, pampering, and lots of care for them to function smoothly. So if you just inducted yourself in the league of luxury car owners, then this article will share some important tips to maintain its life and to keep it running well through the years. Buy the Right Car Products: The thing about luxury cars is that you must invest heavily in its maintenance and its products. Unlike other cars where you can simply buy stuff off the shelves, luxury cars require you to be more considerate.You must look for products that are suitable for your vehicle like GPS tracking system and can enhance its life. When it comes to luxury vehicles, these products are manufactured for the purpose of maintaining the car and to ensure that it runs smoothly. You should research all your options before investing in them. Sometimes your car may even require custom maintenance, be sure to check about that. Get Regular Service: Servicing your vehicle from time to time is an important aspect of your luxury car upkeep. Since your luxury cars have multiple electrical features, they must be serviced more frequently than the others. For your car to get serviced well and on time, you must locate a service center that is capable of catering to your car and its needs. Most importantly, look for a center that specializes in your car type. Drive your Car Frequently: Believe it or not, many luxury car owners simply invest in them for the sake of status symbol and prestige attached to these vehicles. No matter what your reason is, a luxury Mercedes specialist warns that you must take your car out for a spin from time to time. All vehicles should be driven and allowing it to sit idle for a long time can actually be bad for them. Did you know that keeping your luxury car in the garage will cause more damage to your vehicle than driving it? Don't be surprised if your car breaks down after a month of sitting unused in the garage. Take it out and drive that thing to prolong its life! Follow Maintenance Schedule as Provided by Manufacturer: Manufacturers often provide an upkeep schedule that specifies what needs to be done and when. All you need to do is follow the schedule as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly. If you are feeling lazy about getting your car serviced, then remember that it demands more attention and care than a regular car. Interior and Exterior Cleaning: Luxury car models are vulnerable to cuts and scrapes. This is why you should only use the certified cleaning products for its interior and exterior cleaning. High-end interiors in your vehicle are made from expensive materials that require specialized care. Only use leather-approved products on your leather seats. Additionally, use the high-power vacuum cleaner to remove loose dirt and quality carpet shampoo to get rid of all tough stains. The best way to get your luxury car cleaned from the inside is to let professionals handle it. They follow the instructions down to the last detail and ensure that the car is squeaky clean from inside. Additionally, for the exterior cleaning, find a good car wash that uses the hand-washing technique. By using this method for regular cleaning, you can prevent discoloration, and cracking and peeling of paint. Experts recommend that you must get your car washed at least two to three times every week. You should also give it a wax/sealant treatment once every month. Tire Maintenance: Tires are what makes the car actually move, their maintenance is mandatory. As you use your car on a daily basis, the tires take a beating by rubbing against the tarred road. This is why it is imperative that you maintain your tires if you want it to be in good condition. After driving up to a thousand miles, it is common for the tires to experience regular wear and tear. Not getting them serviced in time will also upset the car’s balance. Sometimes, continuing to drive a car with worn-out tires can lead to a tire burst that is not only irreversible but also dangerous. Needless to say, this is why it is recommended to change the tire of your luxury car as soon as the treads on it contract to 1.5mm or less. Another parameter to check the tire life of your luxury car is to check the air pressure. Get your air pressure checked each time you take your car for refueling. Check the Batteries: If you have been driving for some time, then you already know that car breakdown is mostly caused due to faulty batteries. Unlike normal cars, the electrical system in a luxury car is way more complex. Therefore, it requires a trained technician to preserve your battery’s life in order to prevent your vehicle from breaking down unexpectedly. The experts will check for loose screws and build-up on the terminals. They will also ensure that the electrolyte levels are full. Consider replacing the old battery if it has been older than three years. Check the Maintenance Schedule: Even the most basic cars require regular service, your luxury vehicles are way more demanding to ensure their optimum performance. Not to get your vehicle serviced in time can be one of the quickest ways to ruin its health over time. It can add to the cost of your car’s upkeep as failure to maintain its parts can lead to their malfunctioning that will further need their replacement. You can prevent these issues from escalating by handling the maintenance as and when it is required. You should keep a track of when the maintenance is due and plan for it ahead of time to avoid delays. Follow the Rulebook: Maintaining a luxury vehicle is really not as complicated as one would think. It comes with a rulebook with detailed instructions regarding its maintenance and upkeep. All you need to do is follow these basic practices to maintain your vehicle and ensure its long life on the road. Things, like parking your car in the garage and covering it with tarpaulin alone, can prevent the damage caused due to extreme hot and cold weathers. Similarly, there are many such little things that we do not even consider when talking about the maintenance of your vehicles. Now you know that how you need to maintain your luxury car. You can follow all the above-mentioned ways and keep your car in top condition, no matter whether it is an expensive car or an inexpensive one. Make sure that you give time to your car frequently when it comes to taking care of it. Read Also: Car Between 5 – 10 Lakhs – What Is It? What Do You Need To Change Car Rims? Why You Need Classic Car Insurance?

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving – How To Fix This Problem?

You might have noticed some irregularities with your car, like how it’s vibrating more than usual, even while idle. This can happen due to many reasons. Therefore, people should know the reasons behind why their car shakes at idle but smooths out while driving. If you are looking for the answer to this question, then you have clicked on the correct link. In this post, you will learn why the above effect happens and what needs to be done to solve it. Why Does Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving And How To Fix This Issue? If you wish to know why your car shaking while idle, then there can be various reasons for this issue. Therefore, here are some of the most common reasons why your car shakes when idle: 1. The Motor Mounts Are Weak Image Source: foxrunauto.com As you already know, your engine is stored in the car's engine compartment. This is done with the help of motor mounts that are attached to the engine to keep it in place. When these mounts become weak, they might fall off one by one. This can create a situation where your car vibrates when idle. You can notice this the most when your car is in neutral. If it does so, then you better go to a mechanic to get it checked and fixed immediately. 2. Damaged Spark Plugs Image Source: cfx-wp-images.imgix.net Spark plugs are connected to your engine and are responsible for igniting the fuel that goes in it. However, after lots of use, these spark plugs can become greasy due to the accumulation of residue from burnt oil. This can cause the engine to misfire. Therefore, it's best to keep in mind that your spark plugs are best replaced after every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. However, if you have a car that has a diesel engine, then there’s no need to worry about this since diesel engines don't have spark plugs. 3. The Camshaft Timing Chain Is Loose Image Source: carparts.com Many cars have a camshaft timing chain, which helps all the camshafts stay attached to your engine valves and pistons. This can create a problem for you if the timing chain for your camshaft has a loose chain tensioner. If you don't get all the hoses of your engine inspected by a mechanic, then your complaint about your car shaking when idle will never cease. This is because it can cause an engine vacuum leak, increasing the pressure inside its cylinders and vibrating your car. 4. Battery Cables Are Loose Image Source: autochimps.com Another common reason why your car shakes at idle but smooths out while driving is because of loose battery cables. If you see your car wont start after getting gas, then this might be one of the reasons why. This can happen if you recently changed your car battery. It can happen if the battery is not correctly connected to the battery cables. After driving around town, there is a chance that your battery cables might become loose, which leads to vibrating cars. 5. The Sensors Are Dirty Or Worn Out Image Source: protectmycar.com Two primary sensors in your car that are essential for starting it up are - the throttle position and oxygen sensors. Since they are located so close to the engine, they get greased up over time, making them malfunction. Adjusting the throttle cable a bit too tightly might cause the car to turn even while idle. Also, it makes things rough while driving as your car might speed up irrationally at times. In the same vein, a dysfunctional oxygen sensor can lead to exhaust malfunctions. This can also be another reason why your car shakes while idle. 6. Faulty Ignition Control Module Image Source: pixfeeds.com Your car’s idleness can be disturbed if there are faults in the ignition control module. Here, your engine might not start since the control module wrongly sends a signal that makes your engine misfire the compression from your cylinders. You can quickly diagnose this problem if you see your car vibrating on idle, even when you are not pressing the accelerator while in gear. 7. The Gas Cap Is Loose Image Source: carparts.com One of the most common causes of your car shaking on idle is a loose gas cap. If the gas cap is loose, then air can leak inside, pressuring and vacuuming the engine even more. This increase in pressure can cause your engine to shake, even while the car is idle. Therefore, try checking your fuel cap. Open it yourself and then put it back. If you see the cap is loose, then you have found the main culprit. 8. Malfunctions In The Fuel Intake System Image Source: themotorguy.com If you see your car shaking when idle, then there is a high chance that the problem probably lies in your fuel intake system. The more you drive your vehicle, the more wear and tear your fuel intake system suffers, leading to blockages and malfunctions. Obstructions in your fuel intake valves can lead to less fuel going to your engine, which fails to start the engine properly. This leads to vibrations in your engine, which makes your car shake even while idle. Therefore, ask your mechanic and allow them to implement the use of an OBD2 scanner to find car engine malfunctions. This scanner will quickly pick up any obstructions in the fuel intake system. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Here are the answers to some questions that people ask alongside why is my car shaking when idle: Q1. How Do You Diagnose Engine Vibration? Ans: To diagnose the reason why your engine is vibrating, you can do the following:First, place your car in a neutral state.Slowly start increasing the engine speed to an RPM which makes it vibrate. Q2. What Reduces Engine Vibration? Ans: To reduce the vibration of your engine, you can try making the coupling more flexible than before. Here, changing the spring and the damper will work wonders. Q3. Does Changing Engine Oil Reduce Vibration? Ans: Yes, changing the engine oil can indeed reduce your engine and car vibration. This will be most noticeable if the engine has not been changed for some time. In addition, this is more prominent in two-wheelers than in four-wheelers. Conclusion There are various reasons why your car shakes at idle but smooths out while driving. It can be due to iffy motor mounts, gas caps, damaged spark plugs, and battery cables. In addition, your ignition control system might be faulty as well, alongside worn-out sensors. In case you faced a similar situation, let me know in the comments below what you did! Read Also: How Car Detailing Can Keep Your Vehicle in Top Shape 7 Ways to Find the Best Auto Repair Shop for Your Vehicle How To Choose The Best Wheels And Tires For Your Vehicle

Car Battery Maintenance 101

1. Always keep the battery terminals corrosion-free:

2. Do not operate any electronics during startup:

3. Full charge your car battery at least once every month:

4. Check your car’s alternator for car battery maintenance:

5. Do not overload your car battery with accessories:

Bonus Tip: Always top-up car battery with distilled water ONLY:

Car Insurance For Electric Vehicles Explained

Tips for Renting a Wheelchair Van at Your Destination

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Technologies For Creating A Startup Idea

How to Download Facebook Videos on Android?

7 Rules of Effective Ecommerce Web Design

The 10 WordPress Plugins Every Sucessful Blogger Uses

Follow Us

Recent

What to Expect from Upcoming IPOs in the Next Quarter

Map Your Content Strategy: Finding Hidden Topic Opportunities

Beauty Marks On Face Meaning And Implications: A Complete Guide

Easy And Cheap Flapper Makeup Hacks: A Complete Beginners Guide

Related

What Does Elon Musk Have In His Vehicle Fleet?

Important Tips to Maintain your Luxury Car

Car Shakes At Idle But Smooths Out While Driving – How To Fix This Problem?

Car Battery Maintenance 101

1. Always keep the battery terminals corrosion-free:

2. Do not operate any electronics during startup:

3. Full charge your car battery at least once every month:

4. Check your car’s alternator for car battery maintenance:

5. Do not overload your car battery with accessories:

Bonus Tip: Always top-up car battery with distilled water ONLY:

Share this Article

Car Insurance For Electric Vehicles Explained

Tips for Renting a Wheelchair Van at Your Destination

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related