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Jul 05, 2023

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DRIVERS should know that there are important battery checks to be made when driving in the summer. If you're planning to charge your phone, complete these tasks to ensure that you won't break down in

DRIVERS should know that there are important battery checks to be made when driving in the summer.

If you're planning to charge your phone, complete these tasks to ensure that you won't break down in the middle of a trip.

According to experts, the heat can actually be tougher on the power-generating chemistry of batteries than the cold.

Sunshine will pound on the hood of a car and bake the interior which will speed up the ageing of essential parts.

AAA reported that it responded to a whopping 2million battery-related calls in the summer of 2022.

"Routine inspection is as important for the battery as it is for the rest of the car," said car battery tester John Galeotafiore, per Consumer Reports.

It's important to get your battery routinely checked and, if necessary, replaced as heat waves pummel the US.

Before a trip, drivers should inspect the charge and the condition of the terminals and make sure it's securely mounted under the hood.

According to AAA, a battery's life can be shortened if it's vibrating too much during a ride.

Batteries normally last from three to five years, depending on where you live.

If you're in a northern region, it will likely last longer while southern states can see a quick turnaround.

For any battery older than two years, Galeotafiore recommends getting an annual checkup, especially for those in warmer climates.

Mechanics can link a device to the battery which will reveal its capability to hold a voltage.

Depending on the results, they can recommend when it's time to start shopping for a new part.

For those planning a long road trip this summer, keeping a fully charged phone is essential.

While it's perfectly fine to keep the cell plugged in during a drive, drivers should never charge anything when your car is off.

The alternator keeps the battery powered while you're on the road, but an idle car without gas running cannot fuel the battery.

In the summer, it's also important to keep the car as cool as possible.

Make sure to park in a shady spot or an air-conditioned garage if you can.

Also, don't leave your car for too long, as this could lead to a discharge.

Take it out for a spin regularly, or implement a smart charger that can give the battery the boost it needs when you aren't driving.

Finally, it's important to keep the battery clean. Check on the posts every now and then, and use a wire brush to clear off any dirt, grime, and corrosion if necessary.

Another car expert has discovered a hidden feature in your car that will show exactly why your fob isn't working.

And this clever hack will allow you to check if someone's tracking your vehicle.