There is nothing more frustrating than getting stuck in the middle of nowhere with a dead car battery. Typically, a car’s battery will last for four up to six years. However, some batteries won’t be able to reach their expected lifespan and will require replacement. If you don’t want your battery to fail you next time, it is crucial to give it some TLC through these seven tips.

Limit driving short trips

As you start your engine, your car’s battery will also start working; it is then recharged during the journey. However, if you are driving short distances, your battery won’t be able to recharge as needed. Repetitive driving short distances will reduce the battery voltage until it becomes completely dead. 

Ensure your battery is tightly fastened

Tightening your battery is another way to extend its lifespan. The problem with a battery not securely fastened in the mounting bracket could vibrate while the car is running and may cause internal damage; thus, reducing its life expectancy. Make sure to use a battery clamp that will hold the battery down at all times. 

Reduce power use when the engine is off

A car’s battery will be able to perform at its best when it is fully charged. So when your car is not running, and the engine is turned off, make sure that all the accessories are also turned off. Accidentally leaving your headlights or your car’s radio on while the engine is turned off will drain the battery and increase the possibility of damage. 

Prevent corrosion

Your battery is not resilient to corrosion. The sulfuric acid in your car’s battery releases hydrogen gas over time which is the main cause of corrosion. Dirt can also build up on your battery. It is important to clean your battery regularly to prevent corrosion and to remove the accumulated dirt. Make sure to disconnect cables in your battery and use a soft brush to remove the grime and other debris. Then rinse it off with cold water and dry with a clean cloth. 

Charge your battery

The electrical accessories get its power from your car’s battery, even when they are not turned on. If you don’t recharge your battery often, it is best to disconnect the negative battery terminal of the electronic accessories that you rarely use to save battery life. Or you can also connect your battery to a tender charger in order to keep the battery charged while not in use. However, you should be careful not to overcharge it as it can also lead to premature damage to your battery. 

Drive your car regularly

Leaving your car unused for a long period of time is not good for your car’s battery. A car that is left idle for a couple of weeks or months will weaken the battery and slowly lose its electric charge. To avoid this from happening, start your car’s engine and take a spin around your neighborhood for at least 1o minutes. 

Pay attention to your car’s battery

The best way to improve the lifespan of your battery is by handling it with care. Refrain from hard starting it. Keep note of any unusual things that you will notice with your car, especially if it indicates problems with your battery.