How to Maintain, Diagnose, and Replace Car Batteries

Batteries are designed with a specific life-span andand have not come loose from the battery. The
their performance will decline after this time, requiringneedless shaking in car batteries may cause cells to
they be refurbished or replaced. Car batteries appeardeteriorate, which has the effect of diminishing the
to be taking the brunt of the demands from all theoperating life of your battery.
impressive advances made in the car industry. ManyIf your battery is truly dead and can't be revived, you
auto accessories, aftermarket car parts, and high techwill need to go to an auto parts store for a
car stereos use large amounts of electricity whichreplacement battery. If you don't know the battery
strains the battery.type your car requires, there are several ways to find
There are steps you can take to extend the life ofout. All batteries should have a "group size" number on
your battery so that it will not need to be replaced asprinted on them to help with replacement. But if not,
frequently. Wash the terminals often to ensure theyyour auto parts store will have a manual where you
don't corrode and cause problems with the electricalcan look up the correct battery type for your car by
current. Try using pressurized water, like a hose, and avehicle make and model.
wire brush for the best results. Also, you may want toIf you need assistance with the installation of the
purchase a can of foam battery cleaner at your localbattery, do not hesitate to ask an employee for help.
parts store to help loosen any stuck on dirt.The people that work in these stores are experts in
Often there will be signs that the battery is beginning tocar repairs and will be happy to assist you. However,
wear out. Maybe the car doesn't start right away as itsome auto parts stores charge a fee for this service,
once used to, or it needs a jump when sitting idle forso be sure to ask prior to the installation of your new
just a few days. When you start noticing such signs,car battery.
check first to make sure the cables are still secure