Look after your battery — especially in warm weather

Whether you’re out on the open road or just at home, your car battery can take a beating during the summer months.

Contrary to popular belief, sky-rocketing temperatures pose a greater threat to theyour car battery than winter chills.

Here’s why:

Heating up:

Excessive heat can cause battery fluid to evaporate, which can damage the internal battery structure.

High temperatures, combined with heavy traffic on overheated tar roads, can hike up the temperature under the hood of your car and push your car battery to its limits.

Batteries are prone to faults that worsen gradually during hot weather and are often noticed only once cooler temperatures set in.

It is, therefore, vital to maintain your vehicle battery throughout the year, but particularly during warm weather.

Basic maintenance tips:

• Check terminal conditions under the bonnet regularly.
• Check radiator fluid levels to avoid overheating.
• Ensure battery connections are clean and tight – no dirt, engine grease or corrosion (often looks blue).
• For older batteries, refill with distilled water, if necessary.
• Wherever possible, park your car in shady spots or a garage.

Expert checks:

• Get in touch with the professionals to avoid battery failure.

Caught off guard:

If you’re caught in a sticky situation with a faulty battery, avoid being stuck on the road with no idea of what to do.

Pull over and put out your emergency triangle as a warning to oncoming traffic and call for roadside assistance as soon as possible.

Regular preventative maintenance can help prolong the life of your battery and give you peace of mind before every journey.

Take your vehicle to battery specialists every three to six months for safe, happy travelling.

(Information courtesy of Batter Centre — www.batterycentre.co.za)