Third Coast Auto Group Official Blog
What can wear down your car battery?
By Product Expert | Posted in Tips and Tricks on Thursday, March 22nd, 2018 at 7:44 pm
Every part of a vehicle is important, from keeping the tires in good condition to even getting it washed once in a while. Your battery is instrumental in powering features like your sound system and air conditioning and, even more importantly, it’s what allows your car to start. There are warning signs for when your battery is running low, and ways of making your battery last as long as possible that can help you save a few bucks in the service department. In this blog we are going to look at what can wear down your car battery, and how to make it last.
Making Your Battery Last as Long as Possible
We are fortunate here in Austin to have a warmer climate where batteries last longer. In northern climes with long seasons of ice and snow, batteries have to do more work and don’t charge as well. In addition to living in a beautiful city like Austin, there are a few other things you can do to extend the life of your car battery.
Take Longer Drives
Unless your alternator is dying, the best way to keep a good charge on your battery is to take longer drivers. When we say “longer” we don’t mean cross country. Driving an extra ten minutes twice a week, if you usually drive a short distance, can help keep your battery charged and extend its life.
Turn the Car Off
Do you to turn your vehicle off and then sit with the lights on, the radio running, or the AC on at full blast? Doing this can drain the battery and make it harder to start your car later. If you have to run the radio or the AC (which, it is really hot in Texas, so we don’t blame you) try to run the engine periodically.
How do you know if your battery is dying?
If your battery is dead, your car simply won’t start, though you may still be able to get it going with a jump. Some warning signals that your battery is about to die include slower ignition, a dimming of the cabin lights when the car is in idle or when the engine turns off, or less cool air from your AC.
