Batteries are a crucial component of any auto vehicle. However, few people fully understand how they work or what they can do to keep them in top condition. As an auto repair customer, you should know how your vehicle’s battery works and the importance of regular maintenance. We aim to educate you on everything you need to know about batteries, from their types, how they work, signs of a failing battery, and battery maintenance practices.
Types Of Batteries
Two common types of batteries power vehicles-lead-acid and lithium-ion. Lead-acid types are the most prevalent in the automobile industry and are suitable for most cars. These batteries use an electrochemical reaction between electrodes in a liquid electrolyte solution to generate energy. Lithium-ion types are more expensive but lighter and have a higher energy density than their lead-acid counterparts. High-performance sports cars often use these batteries.
How Batteries Work
When a battery is charged, electrons move from the negative terminal to the positive terminal via a chemical reaction, creating an electrical current. Conversely, when discharging, the process reverses where the negative electrode is oxidized, thus releasing electrons through the circuit to the positive terminal.
Signs Of A Failing Battery
A failing battery can be frustrating when you least expect it. Some telltale signs of battery problems include difficulty starting the car, dimming lights, strange noises when starting the engine, and a battery past its lifespan. Replace your vehicle’s battery when you notice signs of failure to avoid any inconvenience with the car not starting.
Battery Maintenance Practices
To ensure your battery lasts long, you must maintain it properly. The first step is to clean the battery terminals regularly using a wire brush. Battery terminals corrode over time, leading to poor connection and eventual battery failure. Another essential practice is to monitor the battery’s temperature and water level. Warm weather and overcharging can cause a battery to overheat and diminish performance.
Batteries are a crucial part of your vehicle and should be well-maintained to ensure they last long and function correctly. As an auto repair customer, understand the different types of batteries, how they work, and the signs of a failing battery. Battery maintenance practices like cleaning the terminals and monitoring temperature are crucial to ensuring optimal performance. With the knowledge gained from this blog post, you’ll be better equipped to handle any battery-related issues that may arise.