The car battery is a fundamental part of the normal functioning of any vehicle, as it is responsible for supplying the energy needed to start the engine and power the vehicle’s electrical systems.
Because it is so essential, many owners face challenges related to this automotive component, ranging from charging problems to battery life issues.
In this article, find out how to charge an auto battery, what the common problems are and what you need to do to overcome them.
What is a Car Battery?
The battery is an essential component for the operation of any vehicle, as it emits electrical discharges capable of starting it, as well as all the car’s electrical components.
What is the Function of a Car Battery?
The car battery function is to store energy in chemical form, which is then transformed into electrical energy when the vehicle needs it.
It enables the car to start and provides energy for interior and exterior lighting. It also keeps the electrical and electronic systems active when the car is switched off.
For example, the air conditioning and electric heating system only work if the auto battery is working properly.
The battery also helps other systems to function, such as:
- ABS brake;
- Electric power steering;
- Electronic injection control system.
How Long Does a Car Battery Last?
The average duration is between 3 and 5 years.
However, this figure can vary depending on several factors, described below.
What Factors Influence Car Battery Life?
As with other car components (e.g. the suspension), there are factors that influence battery life:
1. Driving Style
In general, very short journeys tend to damage battery life, as switching on and off frequently for short journeys leads to greater wear and tear.
2. Vehicle Stationary For a Long Time
Even when stationary, there are systems that continue to consume energy from the car battery.
That’s why it’s best to disconnect the battery when the vehicle is expected to be stationary for a long time.
3. Weather Conditions
Both cold and hot temperatures are harmful to the battery, as they accelerate its wear.
Alternatively, it’s best to avoid leaving your car exposed to extreme weather conditions for too long.
4. Car Battery Quality
As with original or white label parts, the quality of the battery influences its lifespan.
The better its quality, the longer its service life will tend to be.
What Are the Main Problems with Car Batteries?
Generally speaking, the most common problems with car batteries are:
- Slow discharge due to a faulty electrical system or lights left on;
- Corrosion on the battery terminals, causing poor connection;
- Battery failure due to natural aging or extreme weather conditions;
- Electronic problems, such as short circuits or faults in the vehicle’s charging system.
How Do I Know Which Battery Is Best For My Car?
To find out which model is right for your vehicle, you should check the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations.
You should also consider the following characteristics:
- Battery size;
- Cold cranking amps (CCA), i.e. the capacity of the battery to supply electric current to start a vehicle;
- Reserve capacity (RC), which corresponds to the minutes in which the battery can supply enough energy without falling below the voltage needed for the car to run.
How To Charge The Car Battery?
If you’ve tried to start the car and it won’t start, then it could be a sign that the car’s battery has run down.
To charge it, you can use another vehicle’s battery or a battery charger.
How To Charge The Car Battery With a Charger?
If your car battery is low and you need to recharge it, one option is to use a charger.
To do this, you need:
- Disconnect the battery and the car;
- Connect the charger to the battery by attaching the positive clamp, i.e. the red cable, to the positive pole of the battery;
- Attach the negative clamp, marked in black, to a stable area of the vehicle body or chassis;
- Now follow the instructions on the charger and adjust the volts and amps;
- Keep an eye on the state of the battery. Once the battery is fully charged, disconnect the charger and remove the negative clamp (marked in black) and then the positive clamp (marked in red).
How To Charge The Car Battery With Another Car?
Alternatively, you can recharge the car battery with another car. The process is very similar to the previous method.
Just make sure the other car has a battery and place it near the car that needs power. Then make sure the cars are switched off and:
- Put the cars in neutral and apply the handbrake so that the cars don’t move;
- Place the clamp of the negative cable (black) on the battery of the donor vehicle and the other end on the negative pole of the battery of the discharged vehicle;
- Repeat the process for the red cable, this time placing it on the positive poles;
- As soon as the cables are connected, start the donor car so that it passes the energy to the battery of the discharged car;
- After 5 minutes, start the uncharged car. When you start the car, leave it running for between 5 and 10 minutes;
- Now disconnect the two cars so that you can remove the cables in the reverse order to which they were attached;
- Reconnect the car without a battery and let it run for 10 minutes, so that it has time to recharge the battery.
What Tools Do You Need to Charge Your Car Batter?
To charge the battery, you need a set of cables with clamps.
You also need a power source (this could be a battery charger or a charged car).
How To Change a Car Battery?
If your car battery won’t charge, it could be a sign of a problem that can only be solved by repairing or replacing the battery.
In this case, it’s best to contact a mechanic you trust so that they can carry out the process correctly and safely.
Where To Buy a Battery For My Car?
You can buy a car battery from any store that specializes in selling car parts.
What Is The Price of a Car Battery?
The value of a battery depends on the make and model of the car. However, average prices range from €50 to a few hundred euros.
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