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 1725 Border Avenue,
TORRANCE, CA 90501

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Batteries

never buy a service before it's actually due

Relax knowing that we age all of your service history by your unique driving habits, ensuring you don’t do them before they’re actually needed

Lower the cost of vehicle ownership

We ensure you never do services early, squeezing every mile out of every service, creating the most affordable maintenance plan money can buy.

Save $1000's in vehicle payments

By keeping your vehicle a few extra years you can potentially save thousands of dollars a year in vehicle payments.

Batteries: 1 tip to Extend the Life of Your Car Battery

Batteries

Car Batteries are one of the most important components of your vehicle. They provide the necessary electrical energy to start the engine, power the lights and run the accessories. Without a good battery, your car will not start, leaving you stranded and in need of a jump start or tow.

Types of Car Batteries

There are two types of car batteries: lead-acid batteries and lithium-ion batteries. The Lead-acid battery has been around for more than a century and is still the most common type of car battery. They are reliable, inexpensive, and can provide enough power to start an engine in cold weather. While, Lithium-ion battery is a newer technology, and they offer several advantages over lead-acid batteries. They are lighter, smaller, and have a longer lifespan.

Lead-Acid Battery

A Lead-acid battery is made up of lead plates and a sulfuric acid electrolyte. When the battery is charged, the lead plates react with sulfuric acid to produce lead sulfate and water. When the battery is discharged, the process is reversed, and the lead sulfate is converted back into lead plates and sulfuric acid. Lead-acid batteries require regular maintenance, including checking the water level and cleaning the terminals to prevent corrosion. They also have a limited lifespan and must be replaced every few years.

Lithium-Ion Battery

A lithium-ion battery is becoming increasingly popular in cars due to its lightweight and long lifespan. They are made up of lithium cobalt oxide cathodes, graphite anodes, and an electrolyte. When the battery is charged, lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode through the electrolyte, creating electrical energy. When the battery is discharged, the process is reversed, and the lithium ions move back to the cathode. Lithium-ion batteries require less maintenance than lead-acid batteries and can last up to ten years or more.

Factors That Affect Car Battery Life

Several factors can affect the lifespan of your car battery, including temperature, usage, and maintenance. Extreme temperatures can reduce the lifespan of a battery, as both hot and cold temperatures can cause damage to the internal components. Heavy usage, such as frequently starting and stopping the engine or running accessories while the engine is off, can also reduce battery life. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the terminals and checking the water level in lead-acid batteries, can help extend the lifespan of your battery.

Replacing Your Car Battery

If your car battery is not holding a charge or is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s time to replace it. When choosing a new battery, make sure it is the correct size and type for your vehicle. Consult your owner’s manual or a professional mechanic for guidance. It’s also important to choose a high-quality battery from a reputable brand to ensure reliable performance and a longer lifespan.

In conclusion, car batteries are a crucial component of your vehicle. They provide the necessary electrical energy to start the engine, power the lights and run the accessories. Understanding the different types of batteries and factors that affect battery life can help you choose the best battery for your car and extend its lifespan. Remember to regularly maintain your battery and choose a high-quality replacement when necessary to ensure reliable performance and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Go now to Pete’s Autohaus and have your battery get checked and maintained by their professional mechanics.