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What Is A Normal Car Battery Lifespan?

5/18/2020

When talking about vehicle maintenance, numerous factors detect normalcy in theory but seldom come to pass. For example, a car battery lifespan is four years. Though, in the real world, vibration, aftermarket navigation systems, and temperature extremes all take a toll on the battery.

If you look at a typical car battery, it's simple to see why these things affect a healthy battery life. In the plastic box are plates of materials like lead dioxide and lead. The plates are floating in a mix of sulfuric acid and water, creating an electrolytic solution. This solution lets electrons travel between the plates.

Negative Impacts on Car Batteries

Numerous factors disturb a battery's chemical reaction. A poorly secured batter or vibrations from rough travel can damage or loosen the plates. Extreme quickens the chemical reaction, reducing battery life. Extreme cold can extend battery life by decelerating the result. Some batteries are protected by insulation to keep dangerous temperatures at bay.

Driving style can affect the reaction as well. Starting a vehicle takes a big jolt of electricity. Therefore, the charging system must step in to reload the battery. If you make a good number of short trips or short commutes, the battery never becomes fully charged. This consistent state of undercharging produces acid stratification.

The light acid layer will start to destroy the plates. The heavy acid solution will begin to counterbalance the car's electrical needs by operating harder than constructed to work. The effect is briefer battery life, even if the battery displays as working on regular tests.

Signs of Car Battery Problems

Batteries are so simple and so dependable that drivers tend to forget they're even there until it's too late. If you regularly check your car's battery, you'll lessen your risk of being stuck on the road. Batteries are very affordable, considering the amount of work they do.

The most apparent sign of a battery issue is a dead battery. Though a dead battery could be a sign of a deeper problem. If something is wrong in the electrical system, a working battery might be giving less electricity than necessary.

The best way to test a car battery is with the electronic tester at many auto parts stores. You can also call us at Buffalo Roadside Assistance. Our expert can hook the tester to the battery in the automobile. It takes a photo of your battery's condition and suggests whether it needs replacing.

What To Do If Your Car Dies While Driving

5/4/2020

There's nothing quite as frightening as when your vehicle begins giving you grief while you're driving down the street. Do you know the steps to take if your car dies on you? Keep reading to learn what you need to do if your car dies while driving.

Why Your Car Dies While Driving

Out of fuel - If this keeps happening to you, you might need to have an auto technician examine your fuel gauge. You could be getting a false reading.

A problem with the fuel pump - If something is blocking a filter on the car or a fuel pump, the car can die while driving.

Alternator problems - When there is an issue with the alternator, the car operates off the battery. The battery can only go for so long before it's drained.

Malfunctioning sensors - Modern vehicles have computers. The sensors can transmit the wrong information.

Steps to Take When Your Car Dies

Your main priority must be the safety of both yourself and other drivers. Here's what to do if your car dies while driving it:

Steer the vehicle to the side of the road. Don't panic. Despite the loss of brakes and power steering, you can still pull your vehicle over and get the car to stop. It will just be way harder. If you find it too problematic to slow down, go toward a safe spot, and use the emergency brake.

Attempt to restart the vehicle. If you can start your car again, fabulous. Though, the real problem is a clear sign that you need to head for an auto shop to get the issue assessed.

Call for assistance. Call for towing services to your auto mechanic. This is an issue you need to take care of immediately.

Reduce the Risk of Your Car Dying

Several factors can cause your automobile to die while driving. It's crucial to be mindful of your vehicle's maintenance status at all times. Watch where your gas levels are as well.

Whatever the reason your automobile goes out on you, it's imperative to have the problem handled by a professional like Buffalo Roadside Assistance. Our towing technicians provide gas recovery and jump-start battery services. Reach out to us for all your roadside assistance needs.

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What Is A Normal Car Battery Lifespan?

What To Do If Your Car Dies While Driving

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