How to Extend Your Car's Battery Life in Thomasville, GA

Tips to Extend the Life of a Car Battery

Car batteries degrade over time and usually reach the end of their lifespan within five years of installation. Unfortunately, far too many Thomasville residents have to replace their batteries after two or three years due to the hot temperatures and other factors. You can extend that lifespan by learning how to maintain a car battery in Thomasville, GA. These tips will allow you to add some distance between battery replacements.

You must pay attention to any sign that your car is experiencing a problem. If you suspect your vehicle is not performing at 100 percent, you must go to a reliable automotive service center like Thomasville Ford Lincoln.

Take 20-minute Drives Every Couple of Days

Coming in at under 15 square miles, it doesn't take long to zip around Thomasville. In fact, you might find yourself making a lot of short trips in your car, and your battery can suffer as a result. Your alternator doesn't have time to charge the battery fully during short trips. If you only drive short distances, your battery is likely to die.

Keep your car battery in tip-top condition by taking 20-minute drives every other day so it can charge fully. This tip will reduce the need to schedule battery replacement in Thomasville, GA.

Fire Up Your Car Weekly

Do you have an extra car that you don't drive very often? The battery drains when it's not in use, so you might not be able to start your car if you leave it sitting for too long. Charge up your battery by driving the car for 20 minutes each week. If you can't manage 20-minute drives weekly, alternate between shorter and longer drives each week.

Keep the Battery Cool

Thomasville's summers are sweltering, and that causes more issues than a high electric bill. When it's hot outside, it's even warmer under the hood of your car, and those high temperatures degrade the battery. Excess heat can cause corrosion, leaks, and other problems that might prevent your car from starting

Parking your car in a garage or the shade is an easy way to keep it out of the heat. Protecting it with a car cover can also keep the rising temperatures at bay.

Since it's so hot in Thomasville, it's also essential to choose a battery that can stand up to the temperatures. Visit the service center of Thomasville Ford Lincoln in Thomasville, GA, for help selecting the right battery.

Unplug Electronics

Devices aren't just for home anymore. These days, phones, GPS devices, and other electronics are must-haves when driving. When the car's off, your plugged-in devices can still draw power from the battery, so unplug all electronics before exiting the vehicle. After unplugging the obvious electronics, check for after-market accessories. Some accessories drain power when the car is off, but you can prevent that by unplugging them.

Be Careful When Jump-starting Cars

Only some people know how to maintain a car battery in Thomasville, GA, so you might be asked to jump-start a car occasionally. If your battery is in good shape, jump-starting a car should be fine as long as you do it properly.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the vehicle type to protect your battery and vehicle.

Get a Battery Inspection

Regular inspections can extend the life of a car battery and help you avoid getting stranded in a car that won't start. A certified technician can ensure the battery is mounted correctly and securely. Also, the technician can check the connections and clean the terminals if needed. Finally, you can have the technician test the battery load to ensure it's in good condition.

Thomasville Ford Lincoln provides affordable battery testing and maintenance. Stop by to find out if your battery is still in good working condition or if it's time for a new one. If it's past its prime, use our online scheduling tool to book battery replacement in Thomasville, GA.