Here, we outline the steps on how to take care of your battery.
As you know, no battery, no starting. No battery, no ignition. Basically a dead car. But there are times when battery problems are not really caused by a dead battery. Sometimes batteries just need a good clean-up and maintenance.
Before you work on your battery make sure that the car is cool and the ignition switch is off. Also prepare an old toothbrush and a lint-free rag for wiping the battery dry. While you’re at it, get some distilled water and baking soda for cleaning the battery terminals and refilling the battery.
- Do a visual inspection of the battery. Check for crust formations on the battery terminals (the point where the batttery cables are connected) and check the battery cables for damaged and worn-out jackets.
- If you’re batter has removable caps, remove it for a closer look at the battery.
- Check the liquid levels on the battery. If the liquid does not reach the tops of the plates, refill it with distilled water. Be careful not to go over the plates.
- If there are crusts or dust on the battery, wipe them off. Remove the battery cables by removing the negative cable first (the black one, usually, or the one with the negative (-) sign) for better access to the terminals. You can use the toothbrush should the deposits prove to be a bit resilient.
- Check the voltage of the battery through a voltmeter or a battery tester. It should read 12.5 volts.
- Examine the battery case and terminals for damage.
Should you need to get a new battery, get one from a well-known brand. This is to ensure that you’ll have a quality battery in your car.
And so, those are the steps in maintaining your battery.
Info from:
Auto Repair for Dummies by Deanna Sclar
Image from:
http://washford.scene7.com/is/image/Washford/wefitcarmaintenance-ii-Carbatterycheck
