Car batteries last for several years before they need to be replaced, and you should do everything you can to keep the battery in good condition so it doesn’t need to be replaced sooner than expected. There are several types of battery maintenance that you can do at home to keep the battery in good health. Getting regular battery health checks from your local Mazda dealer is important, too.
Clean Your Battery
Over time, grease and dirt can build up on your battery and cause corrosion. Corrosion leads to battery performance issues in some cases. So if you spot any dirt, grease, or corrosion on your battery, then you should clean it off.
First, remove the negative cable and then the positive cable on your terminals. After that, scrub the terminals with a baking soda and water solution. You may also apply petroleum jelly to the formally corroded areas, as it may prevent corrosion in the future. Once done, attach the positive cable and then the negative cable to your battery.
Drive Frequently
Your car battery will die if you go a month or two without driving your vehicle at all. To make sure the battery doesn’t die, drive your vehicle for at least 30 minutes every week. If you’re going to be away for an extended period, then consider getting a friend to bring your vehicle out for a quick 30-minute drive every week.
Check the Acid
Bring your battery to the dealership every six months, so a mechanic can check the acid and electrolyte levels. This is especially important if you mainly drive short distances. If the mechanic finds your battery has low electrolyte levels and will no longer charge above 80 percent capacity, then they may be able to repair the problem without replacing the battery.
Drive More Than 10 Miles
If you exclusively drive very short distances, then your battery may not last as long as it could. Try to avoid driving less than 10 miles as much as possible, so your battery has time to recharge.
Limit Electronic Use with No Engine Running
It’s not a good idea to use your car’s electronic features when the vehicle isn’t running. Doing so drains your battery. Occasionally leaving the radio on for your passengers while you run into a gas station to pay for fuel is fine, but avoid using the electronics for long periods while the engine is off.
Want to check on your battery’s health or get a new battery? Pay us a visit at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI.
Image via Mazda
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