How to check and maintain your car battery

In this article you will learn basic understanding of what the battery’s purpose is and what it’s capable of providing for your vehicle on a daily basis. You will also learn how to clean and maintain your battery.

Safety with Handling Battery’s

When working with and around batteries you need to be cautious about battery acid. Make sure that you always wear safety glasses and protective gloves when working around a battery that may have acid on the case, terminals, or battery tray. Here’s how to properly clean up and handle your car battery.
If you suspect that your battery may have a problem or just want to maintain optimum performance from your battery start by locating where the battery is.

Locate your battery

Some manufactures put batteries under the rear seat of the car, some in the back corner of the trunk, but most are under the hood next to the engine.

The most important thing is to have a clean battery. Most batteries that are dirty have dirt clung to acid which has leaked out though the battery vent or cell caps.

A dirty battery is a sign of problems about to happen, if the charging system is over charging the battery or if the battery has a crack in the case to allow battery acid to leak out.

A dirty battery or corroded terminal ends can cause an endless amount of electrical issues to your vehicle.

Cleaning a Battery

The best way to clean a battery is to buy battery cleaner and protector in an aerosol spray can from your local parts store.

A second alternative for cleaning the battery is baking soda.

Mix ½ a glass of water with 2-3 table spoons of baking soda and pour on battery and let sit for a minute then rinse with clean water.

Neutralizing the acid with baking soda is no different than you chewing up a couple of tums for heartburn.

When the battery is dry apply the protector to the connections at the battery.

Note: Keeping the battery clean will extend the life of your battery as well as eliminate the possibility of having any electrical issues while driving your vehicle.

Recommendations:

Keep an eye on the age of your battery, most batteries last between 3-5 years, so being aware of the life span of your battery can eliminate an unexpected breakdown or costly repairs.