Car  batteries play a crucial role in starting the engines of cars. They are also used in filtering, stabilizing, and giving the required power for ignition and other accessories of cars. A car battery maintains the charging system’s electrical flow when not operating.  Your engine automatically recharges your battery whenever you drive but it has a limited life and you will need to replace it at some point. It is important to take care of your car battery by all means necessary to make sure that it will always give its peak performance.  Neglecting to give your battery the needed care can shorten its lifespan.

 Types of Car Batteries

The Wet or Flooded battery is one of the most popular types because of its cheap price.  The plates are freely suspended and insulated from each other.  The fluid in the battery is enough to last its entire useful life.

Valve Regulated Lead Acid battery or VRLA battery has pressurized safety valves.  The gas is contained in the battery which will eventually mix and form water to make sure that there will be no fluid loss.

The calcium battery has calcium alloy and it reduces fluid loss.  The self discharge rate is also slower.  Take caution not to overcharge it because doing so will cause serious damage.

 Deep cycle battery is most ideal for golf carts, electric vehicles, or small boats.  It has thicker plates that increase charge capacity.  This battery has a high discharge rate and is not a very good choice for cars that are not being used 
regularly.

 Lithium Ion battery is best for limited edition or high performance cars.  It is lighter  which results in a more fuel efficient car.  It is as expensive as the sound of its name.

Proper Maintenance
Car batteries usually last up to three years under medium care and it could last even longer if well maintained. Battery
terminals should be kept clean and make sure that they are nice and tight to avoid power drainage.  It is prudent to disconnect the battery if the car will not be used for a long period of time.  Make it a point to start and drive the car (seldom used) for twenty to thirty minutes at least twice a week to charge the battery and make it last longer.

 Safe Practices in Jump Starting a Dead Battery
 It is foolish to even think of jump starting a dead battery without checking things first. Make sure that jumper cables have no exposed wires, rust, or corrosion.  It is also a safe practice to wear goggles before jump starting.  It is wise to check the car manual and see if it requires specific instructions on jump starting or if such act is not  allowed. If battery liquid is leaking out or the battery has cracks, then do not jump start it. It is equally unsafe to jump start a battery if the fluid is frozen.
 
Replacing a Dead Battery
When replacing a dead battery, one should have the proper tools and gadgets like adjustable wrench, clean rags, disposable gloves, brush for battery, baking soda dissolved in water, and safety goggles. Engine must be turned
off, and parking brake should be on. Open the hood and put a pad, blanket, or any protective covering over the fender to protect the car from battery acid. Consult the car manual first before proceeding in removing cables from the terminals of the battery, check for the first cable that should be removed first.  Remove other mechanisms that hold the battery in place. Once the battery is free, lift it and put it away from the work area. Check the battery tray for any
deposits or rust and clean it with baking soda solution and make sure to wear gloves. The tray should be dry before placing the new battery which should have the exact position as the old one.  Replace the cables on the terminals and put them back in reverse sequence from which they were removed. Finish everything and close the hood.    

What to do with a Dead Battery After it has been Replaced? 
A dead battery that is not properly disposed of can harm the environment so make sure to bring it to a recycling center. There are also retailers that accept used or old batteries for recycling.  Know the drop-off sites for old
batteries.  The important thing is not to leave a dead battery lying around or dispose them as you would ordinary
trash.

Car batteries are very important for giving life to cars but could also cause irreparable damage if not treated properly.
If you need a new battery or have questions about changing your battery call the friendly and knowledgeable staff at Meyers Auto Parts.