Car Battery Lifespan: Factors and How to Extend It
As a car owner, it is very important to know how long the lifespan of a car battery is. As we know, the battery is an important component of the car that functions to store and distribute electrical current to the car's electrical system as a power source. So, how long does it last? Are there factors that affect its lifespan? And can this lifespan be extended? If you are curious about the answers to these questions, let’s take a look at the following discussion.
How Long is the Lifespan of a Car Battery?
How long can a car battery last? You are probably familiar with that question. So, how long? To answer that question, it actually depends on how it is used. Generally, the average lifespan of a car battery can last about two to five years. However, there are several factors that can cause the battery's lifespan to be longer or shorter.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of a Car Battery
Here are some factors that affect the lifespan of a car battery.
1. Usage Factor
The usage factor is the main factor that affects the lifespan of the battery. Continuous use of the battery will certainly reduce the electron levels in the battery, requiring it to be recharged. However, a battery that is rarely used can also become damaged. It is advisable to be wise in using the battery. Use the car's entertainment features (radio usage, or audio features), or components related to the car's electrical system as needed, for example, using the air conditioning.
2. Temperature or Weather Factor
As we know, when the car is running, the hood generates heat. If the weather is hot, it will certainly increase the temperature of the hood even more. This condition can cause the evaporation of fluid in the car battery, especially in wet batteries, thus shortening the battery's lifespan.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Battery
There are several ways you need to know to extend the lifespan of the battery in your car. Here are the complete methods.
1. Regularly Warm Up the Car Engine
To make the battery last longer, you need to warm up the car engine regularly because a car engine that is rarely used can result in lower battery charging. It is advisable to warm up the car engine at least twice a week to prevent the battery from draining. If the weather is too cold, you should warm up the car engine at least every two days. Make sure you do not activate any electrical components or all electronic devices in the car when warming up the engine.
2. Turn Off Electrical Components Before Turning Off the Engine
Next, you can turn off the electrical components or electronic devices in the car first before turning off the engine. By doing this, you can reduce the load on the battery, thus prolonging its lifespan.
3. Ensure the Battery is Properly Installed
The third way is to pay attention to the position of the car battery when you install it. If the battery is not installed correctly and is not secured well, it can cause a short circuit. This can shorten the wear and tear of the battery.
4. Do Not Install High-Power Electrical Accessories in the Car
When you want to install additional accessories such as a mega sound system, spotlight, or other electronic devices, you need to ensure that these accessories do not use too much electrical power. Because if it is too much, it will burden the battery's performance, causing the fluid or electrons in the battery to deplete easily.
5. Perform Regular and Periodic Servicing
Performing regular periodic servicing of the car can also extend the battery's lifespan. When you perform a comprehensive service, your car battery will certainly be checked by the workshop. From the production date of the battery to the electron levels in the battery. If you intend to perform a comprehensive service, make sure to service at a Daihatsu workshop. Because this workshop has high credibility, friendly service, genuine spare parts, and affordable prices.