Car batteries supply power to the car’s engine and electrical systems. They must be charged regularly. A battery’s physical cranking ability is measured by its cold-cranking amps (CCA).
Through a series of chemical conversions, your battery’s plates generate electricity. This energy is stored in the electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid.
Battery type
The type of battery your vehicle uses depends on the power requirements of the engine and other electrical features. Standard wet cell batteries (also known as flooded or conventional) are the most common car batteries. These provide a big burst of electric current to start the engine and then power the car’s electrical systems. They have a case filled with lead plates and short heavy terminals that correspond to positive and negative plate groups within the battery cells. Wet cell batteries are a bit less expensive than other types of auto batteries, but they require frequent maintenance and may leak.
Alternatively, you can choose an enhanced flooded battery (EFB) or absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery. EFB and AGM batteries are designed to meet the needs of modern vehicles with stop-start technology and can hold a charge for longer periods of time. However, these batteries are more expensive than classic wet cell models. They also have a higher cost per capacity than traditional lead-acid batteries.
Battery capacity
The capacity of a battery is determined by its Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). This is a measurement of how much power the battery can deliver at 0°F for 30 seconds while maintaining 7.2 volts. A higher CCA is better for vehicles in cold climates.
Another important specification is the Reserve Capacity, which determines how long the battery can work after being discharged to the cut-off voltage. This is a key factor when choosing a replacement battery for a vehicle that will be driven often or at high speeds.
The Group Size is also an important factor when selecting a battery. This refers to the physical dimensions and terminal locations of the battery, which are typically based on the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. These are usually found in the vehicle owner’s manual. Another option is a Maintenance-Free (MF) battery, which does not require the vehicle owner to top up with distilled water. This type of battery is more expensive than a traditional lead-acid battery.
Battery life
The battery is the heart of your vehicle, providing a burst of energy that powers everything from the motor to the lights. It also stabilizes voltage spikes from turning on and off power-hungry accessories. But it can’t keep your engine running without the rest of the system, so it needs to charge and discharge regularly.
The best way to get the most out of your battery is to know its specifications. These include the battery group, cold cranking amps (CCA), and terminal locations. Generally, you can find this information on the old battery or in the vehicle’s owner manual.
In addition to these traditional measures, you should also consider how you use your car. Driving habits significantly affect battery life. Frequent short trips prevent the battery from fully charging, which reduces its capacity and lifespan. Alternatively, driving long distances gives your battery the opportunity to recharge, extending its life. Some batteries are even low-maintenance, requiring no water refilling.
Battery maintenance
When you drive your vehicle, the battery is responsible for powering all the electrical components, from the headlights to the radio. Having your auto battery repaired regularly can help ensure that it is working optimally throughout its lifespan. A few basic maintenance tips can help, such as keeping the terminal connections clean and checking the fluid level.
If your battery is showing signs of deterioration, such as slow cranking or dimmer lights, it’s time to replace it. Using a battery tester can help you determine its state of health and predict when it will need to be replaced, says Clore’s O’Hara.
A few other maintenance tips include cleaning the terminal connections and avoiding exposing them to the elements. A small amount of dielectric grease on the connection can prevent corrosion and improve charge acceptance. In addition, some flooded batteries need to be topped up with water from time to time to avoid drying up and damaging the plates.