Dealing with a dead car battery is something that most people want to avoid. Car batteries last anywhere from two to five years, depending on your car and the weather in your area. However, there are some preventative maintenance steps you can follow to help yours last as long as possible. To keep yourself from being stranded, learn more to keep your car’s electrical system in tip-top shape.

A Guide to Extending the Life of Your Car Battery

Car Practices to Avoid to Maintain Your Battery

Your car’s battery charges as you drive, meaning that longer trips are better for its lifespan. Try to avoid short car trips as much as possible to give yours the chance to charge fully. Accidentally leaving your interior lights or headlights on when you aren’t in your vehicle is one of the worst things you can do for battery life. Always remember to turn them off when you get out of the car. You should also avoid using electronics, such as the radio or air conditioner, when you’re idling. This quickly drains the battery’s power because the engine isn’t running to recharge it.

Preventative Maintenance

It’s always a good idea to check the power levels often to catch a dead battery before it leaves you stranded. When you test the power, you should also test the connections. Any unwanted vibrations can cause short circuits and other internal damage, so check the positioning in the mounting bracket. If you notice any corrosion, you can use baking soda and water on an old toothbrush to scrub it away to prevent it from negatively affecting your car battery’s life. However, the most important maintenance you can do is to care for your entire car. If the whole machine is running at peak performance, your battery is sure to last longer, as well.

When your car does need a battery replacement, rely on the experts at Victory Battery Co. in Covington, KY. This family-owned and -operated automotive shop has been serving the Cincinnati area since 1957. In addition to providing an unparalleled selection of automotive batteries, this shop also provides its customers with the advice they need to keep their car running at its best. Learn more about the shop online or by calling (859) 581-0343 today.