5 Things Auto Mechanic Professionals Should Know About Dying Car Batteries
A vehicle’s battery is essentially its lifeblood. When the ignition is turned on, the vehicle battery receives a signal to start up, providing electricity to the starter motor to get the engine going and put the vehicle in motion. As the engine runs, the battery’s voltage is recharged by the alternator. When a battery dies frequently, it’s a sign that it’s not getting the voltage it needs from the charging system, and isn’t getting recharged.
While they’re supposed to last for a long time, vehicle batteries aren’t immune to defects or factors which shorten their longevity. If you want to become an auto mechanic, it will be important to caution your future clients about the habits that drain their batteries, helping them to avoid a costly replacement. In the infographic below, discover five things you should know about dying car batteries for your professional mechanic career.
[Infographic] 5 Things Auto Mechanic Professionals Should Know About Dying Car Batteries
1. Parasitic Drain is a Common Culprit
Even when a vehicle is off, the battery delivers electricity to:
- Security system
- Radio
- Weather
- Internal lights
When one of these components remains on when the vehicle is off, this can cause parasitic drain.
Remember: Parasitic drain = a dead battery!
2. The Weather Can Affect the Battery
In extremely hot or cold temperatures:
- The battery’s performance can be weakened
- Underlying problems can become exposed
- Batteries age faster
3. Driving Duration Can Be a Factor
If drivers exclusively travel short distances:
- The battery won’t have a chance to recharge
- The battery may die unexpectedly
Pro tip: As a mechanic, tell drivers they need to regularly take trips over 30 minutes
4. Corrosion is a Battery Killer
Batteries consist of many different positive and negative terminals. These can corrode from:
- Wear and tear over time
- Exposure to excessive moisture
- Other contaminants reacting with the battery acid
Corroded battery connections can:
- Prevent the charging system from reaching the battery
- Cause the battery to die prematurely
5. Forgetfulness Could Be to Blame
When a driver…
- Leaves their lights on
- Leaves a door open
The battery will die, preventing the vehicle from starting!
Are you ready to pursue a professional mechanic career?
Contact ATC Cambridge for more information today!
Works Cited
https://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/blog/batteries/things-that-drain-car-battery/
https://www.lifewire.com/why-car-battery-keeps-dying-4125506
https://www.repairsmith.com/blog/car-battery-dead-heres-what-to-do/
https://www.batterystuff.com/kb/articles/battery-articles/how-do-batteries-die.html
