It’s the most essential component (besides the engine) to keep your car running, and yet it’s often the most overlooked. We’re talking, of course, about your car battery.
Unfortunately, most of us only think about our battery when it abruptly stops working, leaving us stranded in a dangerous situation.
Here’s how to keep that from happening to you.
Clean Your Battery
All kinds of debris collects on your battery cells. Over time, this can lead to corrosion. Use an ammonia-based battery cleaner or a solution of baking soda and water to clean around the terminals and on the top of the battery. Scrub with a damp wire brush to fully remove any crusty dirt which may be corroding the metal.
Use a Battery Heater
If you encounter cold winter temperatures, a battery heater (which you can find in any auto parts store) is a great investment which can prevent the cold from killing your battery. Simply wrap it like a warm jacket around your battery to protect it. You can opt for a battery warmer made of insulated fabric or of rubber that inflates around it.
Add Distilled Water
If you notice that the plates of your battery are exposed due to low electrolyte levels, it’s a good idea to carefully add a little distilled water. Use a water bottle or a funnel, and be sure to add only just enough to cover the plates or fill the cells.
Drive Your Car Regularly
Avoid leaving your car sitting around all the time. Your battery needs the car to run in order to recharge itself. Driving for twenty minutes once a week gives your battery a necessary opportunity to do this. If you’re unable to drive for any reason, simply letting the engine run for twenty minutes can help prevent your battery from dying.
If you need a professional to check or replace your battery, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at McKinney Motor Company. We’ll make sure that it’s working as it should so you don’t have to worry about an inconvenient (or dangerous) breakdown. Reach out to us today.
