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Many people take the reliability of a car's electrical system for granted until your car doesn't start. Without a battery, the ignition and starter would have no capability to crank the engine. Even after your vehicle starts, the battery continues to provide electrical charges to power the car's electrical systems. While you may think batteries are straightforward, many misunderstandings exist about their function, maintenance, and purpose. Today, we're here to lay it all out and set the record straight.
Myth #1: Hot weather isn't as bad on batteries as cold weather.
Both hot or cold temperatures can negatively affect the liquid solution that holds a charge in the battery. Both extremes significantly lower performance and leads to premature wear. While batteries won't freeze in frigid temperatures, it will also limit the battery's ability to work at full power. Hot weather is arguably harsher on your battery, as it can cause the battery solution to evaporate.
Myth #2: Driving or idling a car is going to recharge the battery fully.
This belief is simply false because it takes significant power to drive and idle. Both require you to crank the engine, so it's improbable a shorter drive will put a sufficient amount of charge back to cover the initial start-up. Many newer vehicles can charge a battery at idle, but it's not going to be enough for a full recharge.
Myth #3: With proper care, vehicle batteries can last you an entire lifetime of the car.
A battery is just like any other car part that needs replacing, like a brake pad or fluid; it will be less effective over time. While you can certainly lengthen your battery's life with charging, tests, and maintenance, there's no such thing as an infinite battery.
Myth #4: I can change out the battery myself. There's no need to pay for someone else to do it.
Some people can do certain car maintenance items at home, like oil changes, fluid top-offs, and replacing spark plugs or windshield wipers. However, replacing a car battery is not as straightforward as you think. It may also be dangerous if you aren't entirely sure what you're doing. You might not have all the right tools and equipment either. Many newer cars require the use of a memory minder to sustain power while the car battery is being replaced to reduce the chance of any complications.
If you aren't entirely confident about the procedure, we recommend bringing your vehicle to The Model Garage for a battery replacement. Our expert technicians will take great care of you and your car and make this exchange as seamless as possible. For all your auto needs, please give us a call or visit today.