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If the mercury level falls below zero, many car batteries can fail. However, most drivers are responsible for this problem themselves. An overview of the six most common mistakes and what you should pay attention to. “You can use this trick to check if your car battery is in bad condition.”
The battery is the car part that is often the first to break when it freezes. The battery is put under greater strain in winter: drivers use the front and rear window heating, seat heating, etc. more often. On the other hand, the cold leads to reduced performance. For example, at minus twenty degrees only half of the actual battery power is available.
The result is a shorter lifespan and a greater risk of premature battery “death.” However, many drivers do not take this into account. In fact, they often make mistakes that can accelerate the impending battery death. According to the German magazine Autobild, these are the six biggest mistakes.
1. Short trips
Short journeys are not only harmful to the engine and the environment, they also put enormous strain on the battery. Since the battery has to use a lot of force to start the engine and has little time to recharge, it deteriorates quickly. When other consumers are used – such as the car radio or the heated seats – the battery discharges very quickly. Regular charging with a battery charger helps, as does regular driving over longer distances.
You can easily check whether the battery is in bad condition by turning on the low beam headlights when starting the engine.
2. Do not switch off all consumers
If you leave the light on, you can be sure that the battery will be empty the next day. But there are more consumers consuming electricity. Consider 12-volt outlets, which continue to draw power even when the engine is off. This applies, among other things, to dashcams, heated seat covers, loose 12-volt accessories,…
3. Do not clean a dirty battery
Even if the battery is not maintained, the risk of failure is greater. If the battery is dirty, leakage currents can flow through the moist dirt, causing the battery to slowly discharge. In particular, the poles and connections must always be kept clean, otherwise the battery can be discharged very quickly.
4. Do not use the car for a long time
If the car is not started for several weeks, the battery will be damaged. Over time she loses her tension. For example, if you do not use a classic car in winter, we recommend connecting the battery to a so-called trickle charger with a maintenance function.
5. Ignoring initial signals
If a battery fails, there were often already signs that something had gone wrong. What can be noticeable: flickering headlights when starting or an engine that is difficult to start.
Keep in mind that a battery will typically last six years – in some cases eight to 10 years – before it needs to be replaced.
You can easily check whether the battery is in bad condition by turning on the low beam headlights when starting the engine. If the light intensity decreases over time, the battery is past its prime and it is important to charge the battery as quickly as possible.
6. No consideration of temporary lifespan
Regular maintenance with a charger is the most important thing for long battery life. If the battery fails despite long journeys and regular charging, it may be defective. A good idea is to have the battery checked regularly at a workshop. Keep in mind that a battery will typically last six years – in some cases eight to 10 years – before it needs to be replaced.
Also read:
Your electric car doesn’t travel as far in sub-zero temperatures and here’s what you can do about it (+)
10 car models that will make our specialists’ mouths water in 2024: Which models are worth waiting for? (+)
If you actually want a bonus for your electric car, you shouldn’t fall into this trap: car expert gives advice (+)
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