While most people think that they know at least the basic info about their car batteries, many of those facts might not turn out to be true. There are loads of myths about car batteries -- and being aware of the most persistent of these myths might just save you a lot of time and frustration when it comes time for car battery replacement. Below, the big battery myths are busted:
Myth: While You Drive, Your Battery Will Fully Recharge Itself
Although it's true that your car's alternator recharges the battery while driving, it may not be quite to the degree that you think. In fact, it's often not a full charge due to factors including:
Myth: "Maintenance Free" Batteries Don't Need Any Attention After You Purchase Them
You may have seen the "maintenance free" batteries advertised -- but they're not really maintenance-free in many cases. In the hot climates typical of Australia, the temperature under the bonnet rises rapidly in the summertime. This means that the battery may lose water during the hottest months -- and this can cause low battery electrolyte levels leading to a possible battery explosion. Even the "maintenance-free" batteries may need distilled water during hot weather, but they're often sealed to make that impossible. Therefore, it's best to opt for a standard (non-sealed) car battery so you can add water when needed.
Myth: Turn On Your Car's Lights Before Starting the Engine in Colder Weather
We've discussed hot weather and batteries above, but that doesn't mean there aren't cold weather battery myths as well. One persistent myth about car batteries holds that you should switch on your car's lights before cranking the engine. The idea is that the lights being on helps your car "warm up" enough to start the engine. However, this simply isn't true, and in fact, the headlights could be stealing necessary power away from your cold car engine. While starting a cold engine, don't power the lights on (or any other car components) until the engine cranks and is running successfully.
Want to ensure that your battery is powered up the right way? Remember the myth-busting info above, and speak to a car service about car battery replacements when it's time for a new battery.
Share6 December 2017
Hello, my name is Brian and if there is one thing I like to do, it is to go driving in my car. There is no better way to relax and unwind than heading out on the open road. I am not an auto mechanic or a car dealer, but over the years I have spent many years working with people such people and they have been kind enough to teach me a thing or two about buying and maintain automobiles. I have decided to start this blog so I can share everything I have learnt with the rest of the world.