Battery Maintenance

It is common knowledge that a vehicle's batteries are responsible for starting the engine. But just because that's its main job doesn't mean it is the only thing it does.

An automotive battery acts as the vehicle's power storage. It is recharged by the alternator as soon as the engine starts. The battery will never run out of power as long as the vehicle is running because it is constantly being topped up by the alternator.

While the alternator generally powers accessories like lights, infotainment system, instrument panel, power windows, and windshield wipers, the battery helps chip in some extra juice. This occasionally happens when the alternator is overwhelmed by the demand and can no longer provide electricity to the different systems.

As with all electronic systems, surges are unavoidable. These are unexpected overflows in voltage within the circuit that can potentially destroy electronic equipment. Each vehicle has several fuses and other safety systems to protect it, but the battery is also used to regulate power and to take in and store excess voltage.

It goes to show how essential a good battery is to any vehicle. That is why you must look out for it to ensure that it is working efficiently.

Batteries discharging lower voltage than is needed can wreak havoc in a vehicle's electrical system, including the alternator. It's not just the lights, infotainment system, instrument panel, power windows, and windshield wipers that might malfunction. Parts like the starter motor and solenoid may also be damaged due to the reduced amount of power it receives from the battery.

Don't wait for this to happen. Always have your battery checked by professionals, and there's no better place to go than here at McSweeney CDJR. We have the equipment and expertise to assess your vehicle's batteries, so it's always in tip-top shape.

When Do You Get Battery Service?

A vehicle's battery shows many telltale signs before breaking down. If you're attuned to your automobile's tiny nuances, you will be able to know if it's time to replace your battery or not.

One of the things that quickly go is the lights. If it starts to flicker, then the battery may not be putting out the right amount of voltage for the bulbs to achieve optimum brightness. If this is the case, have it tested right away.

Another easy tell is when the engine experiences hard-starting. Also caused by low-voltage batteries, this occurs when there's not enough juice to crank the engine. Do not force it as it may damage the starter or solenoid.

If other electronically-operated equipment like power windows responds slower than usual, the battery could be at fault. Do note that other vehicle components may also be causing this, so it would be best to have it checked by our factory-trained technicians to be sure.

As a responsible motorist, it would be best to always check the condition of your battery. Take a look at the battery body to see if it is leaking/warping or if there is corrosion on any of the terminals. Any one of these signs warrants a replacement right away.

All vehicle batteries degrade over time due to multiple charges and discharges. That is usually somewhere between three to five years. The longer it is in use, the less electrical capacity it can store and discharge.

External factors will also affect the health of your auto battery. That includes heat, vibration, short trips that don't charge the battery fully and allowing it to drain fully (weekend cars).

Do not wait for these until you experience (or see) these symptoms before you have the battery checked. Be proactive and ensure that your battery gets inspected by our professional mechanics to ensure your safety and comfort on the road.

Schedule Battery Service at McSweeney CDJR

Auto batteries generally last between three to five years, sometimes seven, but it all depends on care, maintenance, and usage.

For your peace of mind, come see us for regular battery service and maintenance to make sure your failing battery won't strand you in the middle of anywhere or damage other key car components and cause costly repairs in the long run.

If you're experiencing any of the symptoms above, don't wait until they get worse before coming in for battery service.

Our expert mechanics here at McSweeney CDJR have the best equipment and multimeters to check and clean your auto batteries, so they keep your vehicle always powered up. Schedule an appointment today and see how we can help you fix any battery issues you may have.