7 Things That Can Drain Your Car Battery

Driving a car that won't start because of a dead battery is inconvenient for any driver. However, some common draining issues can leave a battery lifeless if precautions aren't taken. Short trips without fully recharging, lights left on overnight, and constant draw from electronics are some top culprits. After many cumulative years servicing cars, technicians know how to pinpoint these battery-draining problems. This article will overview the top 7 drains and simple tips to avoid them. With a little diligence, drivers can keep their car battery charged for the long haul.

1. Short Trips Drain the Battery

Just like sipping water doesn’t quite quench your thirst, short trips to the store aren’t enough for your car battery to fully recharge. The battery’s health needs to enjoy a longer ride at least once a week. Think of it as a refreshing long drink for your battery. This regular, extended use ensures it gets a thorough charge, keeping it healthy and prolonging its life.

2. Electronics Zap Power When Off

Ever left the headlights on and come back to a dead battery? Well, other electronics like phone chargers do the same thing on a smaller scale. They continue sipping power even when you're not driving. So get in the habit of unplugging them when you park. Every little bit helps avoid draining that battery juice. Search for a car battery near me for services.

3. Forgetting Headlights Drains Faster

Heading home after dark and forgetting to turn off the headlights? You might be calling your spouse for a jump start when you wake up! Those headlights are power-hungry. Left on overnight, they can completely drain your battery. Save yourself the early morning hassle by double-checking them before leaving the car.

4. Old Batteries Lose Power

Batteries don't last forever - they get old and worn out like ours. After years of battling under-the-hood heat and freezing winter temperatures, their charging power isn't the same. Running a marathon takes more out of us now than it did 10 years ago! If your trusty battery is 3 years old, take it to the auto shop for a quick test. Make sure it's still kicking strong.

5. Corrosion Saps Power

See that crusty white stuff on your battery terminals? That's corrosion, making it hard for your battery to power up. Clean off the terminals regularly with a wire brush to keep the electricity flowing strongly. You can also use a lubrication spray to keep the terminals corrosion free. A little maintenance goes a long way!

6. Heat and Cold Are Hard on Batteries

Sitting in summer heat saps your battery's strength over time, kind of like how we get worn out in hot weather. The heat causes fluid inside to evaporate and corrosion to happen faster. Frigid winter temps also sap a battery's starting power. Extreme temps are just hard on batteries.

7. Electrical Problems Cause Trouble

If your battery keeps dying, there might be an electrical issue lurking. Problems with the alternator and belts not recharging right can drain the battery. Short circuits do it too. Check your charging system if your battery keeps running out of juice.

The Bottom Line

Avoiding a few common car battery drains can distinguish between a battery that starts strong for years and one that leaves you stranded. You can sidestep the top drains with just a little diligence about taking longer drives, monitoring electronics, and checking headlights. Keeping an eye on battery health and connections also goes a long way. Apply these simple battery care tips, and you'll be rewarded with reliable starts every morning. If you’re looking for car battery replacement services, there is no better option than AIS Windshield Experts.