5 Easy Ways to Extend Your Battery’s Lifespan This Fall

Autumn’s chilling embrace often brings along the annoyance of a vehicle refusing to start, usually due to a depleted battery. When temperatures drop, your car battery becomes more vulnerable and requires extra care. Here are five inexpensive ways to preserve your battery life, so that you don’t get left out in the cold:

Minimize Short Drives

Short trips actually deplete your battery more quickly than long journeys, as the vehicle does not get enough time to recharge the battery adequately. Starting the car puts a lot of strain on the battery, and its risk of discharge increases if the car is shut down within five to ten minutes.

Whenever possible, try combining errands into longer drives to allow your battery more recharge time. Opting for a slightly further grocery store might cost a bit more in gas money, but it pales in comparison to the cost of battery replacement.

Avoid Lengthy Parking

Modern vehicles come with multiple electronic systems that slowly consume your battery power, even when turned off. This slow process is referred to as parasitic drain.

If your car sits idle for a long duration – i.e., you’re parked at the airport for a week during your holiday vacation – try to disable as many of these features as possible. Even if you find yourself stuck at home during an early winter storm, try to start your car for about 20 minutes daily to maintain a consistent battery recharge routine.

Turn Off Electronics When Engine is Off

Leaving non-essential electronics on when the engine is off can drain your battery, particularly during the colder months. When you switch off your car, ensure all electronics, including heating, radio, and headlights, are also off. If you need to stay in the car for a while, just keep the engine running; your battery will appreciate the chance to go through its usual recharging cycle.

Regularly Check and Maintain Your Battery

If your battery’s state continues to be a source of anxiety, investing in a car battery tester might be the way to go. Regular voltage checks can warn you of any potential issues early on. After each test, make sure your battery is secure in order to prevent any internal damage caused by vibrations. Also, at the first signs of corrosion, clean the battery terminals with cold water and a dry cloth.

Be Prepared for Anything

Donate a portion of your trunk space to a pair of jumper cables; if your battery fails despite your best efforts, they could very well be your last option. However, adhering to the above tips should make them nothing more than a precautionary measure.

If you still find your engine sputtering in any way this Fall, don’t hesitate to visit us at Healdsburg Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Whether you’re in need of a new or used vehicle, service, or parts, we’re here to keep you charged up and on the move.