Top 5 Reasons for Car Battery Failure and How to Avoid Them
As a car owner, one of the most inconvenient and frustrating experiences is when your car battery fails unexpectedly. Whether you’re in the middle of a busy day, rushing to an important meeting, or getting ready for a road trip, a dead car battery can throw a wrench in your plans. I’ve personally had my fair share of battery failures, and I’ve learned a lot about the top reasons behind them and how to prevent them from happening. In this article, I’ll walk you through the top five reasons for car battery failure and share practical tips on how to avoid them, ensuring you can keep your car running smoothly and avoid those frustrating breakdowns.
NTB-National Tire & Battery
6315 Prentiss School Dr, Canal Winchester, OH 43110, USA
1. Extreme Temperatures
Extreme weather conditions are one of the leading causes of car battery failure. Both hot and cold temperatures can put a strain on your battery. In the winter, the cold weather can cause the battery’s chemical reactions to slow down, which reduces its ability to produce the necessary power to start your engine. On the other hand, extremely hot weather can cause the battery fluid to evaporate, damaging the internal structure of the battery and reducing its lifespan.
In my experience, I’ve found that one of the best ways to prevent battery failure due to temperature extremes is to park your car in a garage or shaded area whenever possible. If you’re in an area that regularly experiences extremely hot or cold temperatures, it’s also a good idea to invest in a battery with higher cold-cranking amps (CCA), which can provide extra power during cold starts. Regularly checking the condition of your battery and replacing it every few years can also help avoid issues related to temperature extremes.
Pep Boys
1200 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007, USA
2. Corroded Battery Terminals
Another common issue that can lead to car battery failure is corrosion on the battery terminals. When corrosion builds up on the positive and negative terminals, it can prevent the battery from making a proper connection with the cables, leading to poor performance or a complete failure to start the car. Corrosion typically appears as a white, chalky substance around the terminals, and it can easily be cleaned off with a mixture of baking soda and water.
I’ve personally dealt with this issue a couple of times, and I found that regularly inspecting the battery terminals is key to avoiding this problem. If you notice corrosion, it’s essential to clean it off as soon as possible. Use a wire brush to remove the corrosion, and be sure to wear gloves and eye protection while doing so. Additionally, applying petroleum jelly or anti-corrosion spray to the terminals can help prevent future buildup and ensure a better connection between the battery and the cables.
3. Leaving the Car Unused for Long Periods
Sometimes, we forget about our cars when they’re not being used, especially during long vacations or during the winter months when we might not drive as frequently. Leaving your car unused for an extended period can lead to a dead battery because the battery slowly discharges over time when it’s not being used. If you’re leaving your car parked for a while, the battery can lose its charge completely, which will leave you stranded when you try to start the car.
I’ve had this happen to me before, and it was a real inconvenience. To avoid this issue, I recommend using a battery maintainer or trickle charger if you plan to leave your car unused for more than a couple of weeks. These devices help maintain the battery’s charge and ensure that it stays in good working condition. If you’re unable to use a charger, it’s also helpful to start your car at least once a week to keep the battery charged. Another option is to disconnect the battery entirely if you’ll be away for an extended period.
4. Old or Worn-Out Battery
One of the most common causes of battery failure is simply age. Over time, batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, and eventually, they will fail completely. On average, car batteries last about 3 to 5 years, depending on the type of battery and driving conditions. However, if your battery is older or has been subjected to extreme conditions, it may start to show signs of failure even sooner.
In my experience, I’ve found that regular battery testing is crucial. Many auto parts stores offer free battery testing, which can help you identify whether it’s time to replace your battery. If your battery is over three years old, it’s a good idea to have it tested at least once a year. If the battery shows signs of weakness, replacing it proactively can save you from being stranded when it finally dies.
5. Faulty Charging System
Another factor that can lead to battery failure is a malfunctioning charging system. If your alternator or voltage regulator isn’t working properly, the battery won’t receive the proper charge while the engine is running, leading to a dead battery. A faulty charging system can drain the battery and prevent it from getting the charge it needs to function effectively.
I had a situation where my car would start fine but would die shortly after driving, and it turned out to be an issue with the alternator. If you’re experiencing electrical problems or dimming lights, it could be a sign that your charging system is malfunctioning. To prevent this, have your alternator and charging system checked regularly during routine maintenance. If you suspect an issue, it’s best to get it addressed sooner rather than later to avoid battery failure.
By being proactive and taking care of your car battery, you can avoid many of the common causes of failure and ensure that your car starts every time you need it. If you find yourself in a situation where your battery has died, and you need a jumpstart or towing service, consider reaching out to Rescue & Towing for fast, reliable assistance. Their team can help you get back on the road quickly and safely, no matter where you are.
