Changes and advances in vehicle technologies mean the way your battery connects with your car has also changed.
The RAC WA addresses some myths and facts about batteries in modern cars.
Are there tell-tale signs my car battery is about to die?
Possibly. One sign may be you hear the starter turning the engine more slowly than usual. This is a sign the battery may be struggling. The battery light on the dashboard may light up, although this is not always an indication the battery is going to die. Be aware of battery leaks and any scaly build-up on the terminals. An older battery (more than three years) is less likely to stand extreme weather conditions and when it does fail, it is also possible it will not be preceded by any noticeable warning signs at all.
Can a flat battery affect my fuel economy?
Yes it can. Your car’s alternator will work harder to try to recover your battery when it goes flat. This adds extra load to your engine and uses more fuel. Keep your battery charged and replace it with a new one at the first signs of it failing.
Will my battery last for a specific amount of time?
There are no guarantees as to how long it will last. Its longevity may be affected by how fresh the battery stock was when it was first installed, if it was installed correctly, how often the car is used and whether the battery and car have been well maintained.
I’m going on holiday. Should I disconnect the battery?
We do not recommend disconnecting the battery in modern vehicles. Depending on the make, model and age of your vehicle, disconnecting the battery may result in the loss of some of your vehicle’s computer settings. If you’re going to be away for more than two weeks, ensure the battery is fully charged before you go and if it has removable caps, check the electrolyte level is correct. If in doubt, contact an automotive workshop for advice.
Do I need to do anything with my maintenance-free battery?
All batteries need to be checked regularly and looked after. Have your terminals checked and cleaned to get rid of any corrosive build-up and check your battery is secure within your vehicle. At your next service, get your alternator charge rate checked to ensure it is delivering enough charge to your battery.
