Maintaining Your Ford’s Battery: Ensuring Reliability

When well-looked after, car batteries can last for five or six years. If you carry out diligent Ford battery maintenance, you could save over $1,000 on new batteries over the lifespan of your vehicle. You’re also less likely to climb into your car one morning only to find the engine refusing to start. Follow the tips below to keep your battery performing reliably for many years to come.

Turn Off Unnecessary Electronics 

The less strain you put on your battery, the longer it will last, so it’s wise to develop the habit of turning off all electronics in your car even before you switch off the engine. This saves the battery from unnecessary drainage when the alternator isn’t helping.

Drive Your Car Frequently 

While excess usage drains car batteries, periods of inactivity also cause harm. When unused for prolonged periods, car batteries steadily deplete and begin to reduce in capacity. With this in mind, it’s best to drive your car at least once a week. If you need to leave your car unused for a while, connect a trickle charger to the battery, which will prevent it from depleting and keep it healthy. 

Lengthen Your Drives

It’s best to avoid very short trips as much as possible. Longer trips of at least thirty minutes give the battery time to fully recharge. Coordinating errands is one way to turn several short drives into a longer one. 

Protect Your Battery From Cold and Heat

Both severe cold and heat can damage a car battery. During summer, try to park under shade or inside a garage. During winter, avoid parking outdoors overnight. If you must park outdoors, protect your car with an insulated cover; you can also buy a warming jacket specifically for the battery.

Clean Your Battery and Tray

Car batteries should be kept clean at all times. Once a month, wipe yours down regularly to stop dust, grime, and corrosion from accumulating and causing harm. 

Fasten the Battery Brackets

Batteries that are loose in their brackets tend to vibrate excessively, which damages the internal components. Every now and then, check to make sure that your battery is firmly fixed in place.

Inspect and Test Your Battery 

It’s a good idea to occasionally inspect your battery. If it ever looks warped or cracked, you’ll need to install a new one. Also, sometimes ask a technician to test it, especially once the battery passes three or four years of age. 

Watch Out for the Battery Warning Light

If your battery starts to fail, you’ll typically see the battery warning light spring to life on the dashboard. When you see this light, have the battery examined and tested.

Visit Zeigler Ford Plainwell in Plainwell, MI, today to have your battery checked or replaced. 

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