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, skyrocketing temperatures pose a greater threat to your 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 during hot weather, that worsen gradually and are often only noticed once cooler temperatures set in. It’s therefore vital to maintain your vehicle battery throughout the year, but particularly during warm weather.
Basic maintenance tips:
- Check terminal conditions under the hood 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 failures. Battery Centre offers free battery testing – a thorough assessment of your car battery’s working condition – as well as information on correct charging time, corrosion and battery replacement options.
Caught off guard
If you’re caught in a sticky situation with a faulty battery, avoid being stuck on the road with no idea what to do.
Pull over and put your emergency triangle out as a warning for oncoming traffic. 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 the battery specialists at your nearest Battery Centre every three to six months for safe, happy travelling.
For more information about Battery Centre and to find a centre near you, visit www.batterycentre.co.za or call toll free 0800 112 600.
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