Keeping on top of your battery this winter to avoid breakdown

Let’s hope this winter none of us encounter the notorious “click.” By this, we mean the dreaded failure of your car’s battery, which normally happens (very inconveniently) on a cold winter morning.  Rescuemycar.com has a few hints on tips on why batteries fail, how to identify battery failure and more importantly, tips on how to prevent it!

Why car batteries fail

Car batteries can fail for a number of reasons but the most common cause of battery failure is driving habits. However, if your battery is more than four years old then it’s probably on its way out.

Battery failure is the number one cause of most breakdowns, being responsible for a hefty 52% of car breakdowns (figures from Battery University). The remaining 48% of breakdowns are generally as a result of the following: flat tire, fault in the engine, wheels, fuel injection, heating, fuel system.

Other factors which might affect the battery’s condition are as follows:

• Cold weather - this can reduce your battery’s efficiency and will most probably die out if you do not undergo regular car maintenance during winter.
• Hot weather – annoyingly, high temperatures also have a drastic effect on your battery just like cold weather conditions. Sweltering temperatures can effectively cause your battery to burn out as the heat causes the battery’s fluids to evaporate.
• Lights left on – make sure that you do not leave your lights on overnight as this will drain the battery completely.
• Complete inactivity – if the car is left standing and hasn’t been used in quite some time then the car’s battery can die out as it will lose electrical charge. If this applies to you then take your car out for a spin more often as this will help to keep the battery going and avoid sulfation.

How to identify battery failure 

• The “click.” When you go to turn the key in the ignition and you are presented with a “click” sound, it usually means that your battery is dead. If you’re lucky enough to be at home, you can bump-start your car but note that this won’t save your battery from failing again in the future. If it’s old, it’s a good idea to replace it so you’re not greeted with this problem on an even colder winter morning.
• Silence. If you turn the key and there is no sound and no sign of life from any internal electronics then you’re battery is most definitely dead. If this happens and you have a fairy recent battery then there’s something wrong with the alternator. Jump-start the vehicle and take it to your nearest repair store or garage.

Pitchy engine noises and dimming lights can also let you know that your battery is dying or needs charging.

Quick tips on how to prevent battery failure

• Replace your battery after four years, five may be pushing it!
• Turn off car electrics if you’re not using them e.g. heater, lights and radio
• Keep on top of battery water levels – failure to do so may result in battery damage.
• If you’re not planning on using your car over a period of several days then charge it overnight to give it a boost and to prevent the battery from dying out.
• Get your alternator belt checked out by a qualified serviceman.
• Get yourself a Battery Analyser so you know what condition your battery’s in before you hit the roads.

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