In the last few months, many of us have only been able to take our cars out on short journeys, which can lead to battery problems. When you leave your car on the driveway, in the garage or only drive it short distances, the battery will slowly start to discharge, as the vehicles charging system isn’t getting the chance to keep your battery topped up.
However, we’re starting to be able to get out and about more, so to help you avoid a flat battery, we’ve got a few tips on how to keep your car’s main power source ready to go when you need it.
Turn off those power-hungry electrics
If your headlights are blazing, the air con is always on, the music is blaring from your radio or your passengers are constantly playing with your electric windows, your battery will continue to drain. Reducing your use of electrics ensures that the alternator will be free to do what it does best – charging your battery.
Keep doors closed
When you turn off your engine, your car will go into sleep mode, so try not to open your boot or doors too much at this point, as this will activate the electrics in your vehicle and ‘wake up’ the battery.
Keep it clean
Make sure you keep your battery clean and dry. Excessive moisture can cause creeping currents, which drain it. You can clean it easily using a wet toothbrush and baking soda, then wipe it thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth. Be careful to make sure you don’t get water into any of the battery ports.
Don’t disconnect it
Most cars use complex electrical systems to keep them moving, and the last thing you need is to be confronted with a dashboard full of error messages or lost data. So make sure all the connectors are in place.
Get your battery checked
Always look after your battery in line with manufacturer guidelines, and if there are any issues, you’ll need to get it checked in a workshop by trained technicians. If you think it’s time for your battery to be looked at, you can make an appointment at one of our service centres here.