How to Maintain Your Car Battery for Longer Life

1. Don’t leave your car unused for long periods

Your car's battery gradually depletes if you leave it parked for weeks without starting it. A car battery, much like a smartphone battery, loses charge even when it is not in use.

When a car stands idle, what happens?

• The battery's charge progressively depletes.

• Extreme situations can result in sulfation, or the accumulation of lead sulphate, which lowers battery performance.

• Security alarms and other electrical equipment keep using power, which depletes the battery.

How can battery drain be avoided?

• At least twice a week, start your car and give it ten to fifteen minutes to idle.

• Use a trickle charger or unplug the battery if you won't be using the vehicle for a long time.

• If you can, deactivate your car's automatic start/stop function while not in use.

2. Clean your battery regularly

Poor electrical contact results from corrosion that builds up on battery terminals over time. This accumulation impairs performance and degrades the link, similar to rust on an iron fence.

Here are the indicators of corrosion:

• Powdery deposits on the terminals that are white or greenish.

• Having trouble starting the vehicle.

• Dashboard lights flickering.

How can battery terminals be cleaned?

• Make a paste by combining water and baking soda.

• Scrub the terminals lightly with a brush.

• Use fresh water to rinse, then pat dry with a towel.

• To prevent corrosion in the future, use terminal grease or petroleum jelly.

3. Avoid short rides as much as possible

The battery cannot be completely charged if the car is often taken on short journeys. Look at it like perpetually disconnecting your phone before it has reached 50% charge—it will never receive enough power to perform effectively.

Why are short trips detrimental to your battery?

• There is insufficient time for the alternator to recharge the battery.

• As the battery stays low-charged, wear and tear increases.

• The battery is strained by cold starts, which need more power.

What should I do instead?

• Instead of making several short trips, try combining all of your errands into a single long one.

• Once a week, take your car for a 20–30 minute highway run if you travel less than 5 km every day.

4. Regularly test your battery voltage

You could find yourself stuck at the worst moment due to a poor battery. To make sure you're never taken off guard, check its voltage.

How can I check the voltage of my car's battery?

• Make use of a multimeter, which can be purchased online or from auto accessories stores.

• When the car is off, a good battery should register between 12.6 and 12.8 volts.

• The voltage should be between 13.7 and 14.7 when the engine is operating.

Warning: Your battery may be weak and require replacement or recharging if the voltage falls below 12.4V.

5. Turn off all lights when you exit the vehicle

Overnight use of your entertainment system, interior lighting, or headlights could drain your battery, leaving you with a not-so-happy surprise in the morning.

How can accidental battery drain be avoided?

• Before locking up, make sure your headlights and cabin lights are in working order.

• If your car has auto-off headlight settings, use them.

• Install a battery-saving relay so that, after a particular period, the lights will automatically switch off.

6. Check distilled water levels regularly

Many batteries require distilled water for proper function. In India's hot climate, battery fluid evaporates faster, making it essential to check levels frequently.

Steps to check & refill battery water:

• Open the battery caps and ensure water covers the plates.

• Use only distilled water—never tap water, as it contains minerals that can damage the battery.

• Check levels every 2-3 months, especially in the summer.

7. Choose renowned brands

Buying a cheap battery may save money initially, but it can cost you more in the long run. Renowned brands ensure better performance, reliability, and warranty support.

Why choose branded batteries?

• Longer lifespan.

• Better warranty support (3-5 years).

• Lower chances of sudden failure.

8. Avoid using power when the engine is off

Many car owners leave the radio, AC, or phone charger on while the car is parked. This drains the battery unnecessarily.

How to avoid unnecessary drain?

• Charge your phone while driving, not when parked.

• Turn off AC and infotainment before switching off the engine.

• If stuck in traffic, avoid using high-powered accessories without the engine running.

9. Ensure the battery is securely fastened

A loosely fitted battery can vibrate while driving, leading to internal damage. If you frequently drive on bumpy roads, check the battery’s mounting.

What to do?

• Ensure the battery clamps are tightened properly.

• If you hear a rattling sound from the hood, inspect the battery mount.

10. Park in shaded areas

Excessive heat evaporates battery fluid, reducing lifespan. In India, where summers reach 45°C, protecting your battery from heat is crucial.

Tips to prevent heat damage:

• Park in a garage or under shade.

• Use a car cover to protect it from direct sunlight.

• Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat.

In Summation

Proper car battery maintenance is crucial for ensuring smooth vehicle performance and avoiding unexpected breakdowns. By following these car battery maintenance tips, you can extend your battery’s lifespan, reduce long-term costs, and maintain vehicle efficiency.

At Shriram Car Insurance, we understand that car maintenance and financial protection go hand in hand. With our comprehensive car insurance policies, you can get:

• 24/7 roadside assistance add-on, so you are never left stranded due to run down battery or other issues.

• Cashless repairs at a vast network of garages across India.

• A hassle-free claims process with quick approvals and minimal documentation.

Your car battery keeps your vehicle running, and Shriram Car Insurance ensures that nothing stops you on the road. Choose a policy that provides financial security and peace of mind, no matter where your journey takes you.

FAQs

1. How often should a car battery be replaced?

Most car batteries last between three to five years, depending on usage and maintenance.

2. Can tap water be used in a car battery?

No. Only distilled water should be used, as tap water contains minerals that can damage the battery.

3. What are the signs of a failing battery?

Symptoms include a slow engine crank, dim headlights, clicking sounds when starting, and dashboard warning lights.

4. Does the weather affect battery life?

Yes. Hot weather accelerates fluid evaporation, while cold weather reduces battery performance.

5. What is the best way to dispose of an old car battery?

Take the battery to an authorised recycling centre or a battery dealer for safe disposal.