1.
How does a battery work?
A
battery stores energy in chemicals form that can be released on
demand as electricity. This electrical power is used by the cars
ignition systems for cranking the engine. The car's battery also
may power the lights and other accessories. Should the alternator
belt fail, the battery might also need to power the vehicle's entire
electrical system for a short period of time.
2. How do I Know when I need to
replace my battery?
Warnings
that a battery may need replacing or that the electrical system
needs checking include:
-
Slow or interrupted turnover of the starter motor.
- The
instrument panel indicated battery "discharge" for extended period
after the engine is already running.
- The
battery seems to lose power quickly in cold or extended starts.
- The
headlights dim at idle. Unfortunately, many times there is little
if any warning. If you suspect your battery is load tested or
replaced.
3.
What is the lifespan of battery?
The
lifespan of a battery varies significantly from vehicle to vehicle,
region and driving patterns related to the profession of the drivers.
Batteries
are designed to have over 200 life circles. Each day or each start
will use up a fraction of a cycle. A normal lead acid battery will
have a lifespan of 18 to 24 months.
If
you are disappointed with the battery life you get and you car's
electrical systems is in good operation condition you should grade
up.
4.
My battery is new, how do I prevent it from going "flat"?
The
radio, electrical items and all head lights must be switched off
when the engine is not running.
- Check
the alternator regularly. A faulty or loose alternator belt cannot
efficiently charge the battery.
- The
wiring system is not functioning properly. Any short circuit will
drain the battery.
5.
What should I consider when I buying a battery?
SIZE:
what are the dimensions of your original battery?
POWER:
what are the Cold Cranking Amps required to power your vehicle?
WARRANTY:
automotive batteries are backed by a warranty package.
Chose what is right for your vehicle's needs. .
6.
When I am replacing my battery, why is it important to remove the
ground wire first?
Before
you start, always check the type of grounding system the vehicle
has. If you remove the positive connector first in a negative ground
system, you risk the chance of creating a spark. That could happen
if the metal tool you're using to remove the positive terminal connector
comes in contact with any piece of metal on the car. If you are
working near battery when this occurs, it might create an ignition
source that could cause the battery to explode. It's extremely important
to remove the ground source first.
7.
What does CCA mean?
Cold
Cranking Amps is a rating used in battery industry to defined a
battery's ability o start an engine in cold temperatures. The rating
is the number of amps a new, fully charged battery can deliver at
0 Farenheit for 30 seconds, while maintaining a voltage of at least
7.2 volts, for a 12 volt battery. The higher the CCA rating, the
greater the starting power of the battery.
8.
What can excessive heat do to a battery?
Hot
temperatures will deteriorate a battery's life quicker by evaporating
the water from the electrolyte, and corroding and weakening the
positive grids.
9.
How do I maintain / service my battery?
Clean
the terminal and vent plugs if required. A clogged vent plug can
caused an explosion. Check the water leel of each cell and fill.
Always used distilled water free of ions or other chemical. The
contaminated water could drastically reduce the battery life and
power. Do not fill over or acid may flow over and spill on to your
car. Sulfuric acid attacks your car paint and any other metal parts.
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