Everything you need to know about your car’s battery

The battery is an essential part of your car.
Without a properly functioning battery, your car simply won’t start.
In this article, we explain exactly what the battery does, how to keep it in good condition, how to notice when the battery is getting old and approximately when this happens.  

What does a battery do?

The battery is responsible for providing the electrical energy needed to start the engine and to power the car’s electrical systems when the engine is not running.
The battery stores energy in the form of chemical energy and converts it to electrical energy when needed.
While driving, the battery is charged by the alternator, which in turn is driven by the engine, generating electricity.

How do you keep the battery good?

Many people don’t actually think about their car’s battery.
Yet a little bit of maintenance can make it last a lot longer.
Here are some tips for keeping your battery in good condition:

If you don’t use your car for a long time, the battery can run down.
There is then a chance that the car will not start when you want to go somewhere, which is of course very annoying.
If the car stands still long enough, the battery becomes deeply discharged.
It can then no longer be charged and must be replaced.
Try to drive the car for half an hour at least once a week to avoid this.

Make sure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion.
Corrosion can prevent the terminals from making good contact with the battery terminals.
This prevents the battery from charging properly.
In addition, the battery may drain faster.
If you see that the terminals are dirty, you can clean them with soapy water and a wire brush.

Short trips do not give the alternator enough time to fully charge the battery.
If you only use the car for weekly errands, it is wise to make your drive a little longer to allow the battery to fully recharge itself.  

The biggest contributor to a dead battery, is headlights that are left on.
So always make sure that you turn off all power consumers when you get out and that the doors are closed tightly so that the interior light is not left on.

How do you notice that the battery is getting old?

A battery lasts an average of three to five years, depending on your driving style and usage.
Here are signs that your battery needs replacement:

If you notice that the engine starts with difficulty, this could be a sign that the battery does not have enough voltage.
If the car has not been idle for an extended period of time and the battery is already a bit older, this could be a sign that the battery is deteriorating.

If the headlights and other lights dim when the engine is idling, it could also mean that the battery can no longer hold enough voltage to power all systems.
Many cars have a warning light on the dashboard that indicates when there is a problem with the battery or charging system.

If your battery is older than three years, it is wise to check it regularly.
Keep an eye on the above points.
If you suspect the battery is getting old, you can measure it (or have it measured) with a multimeter.  

Winparts.co.uk: your partner for a new battery

If you find that your battery needs replacement, you’ll find at Winparts.co.uk easily a new one.
Winparts.nl offers a wide range of batteries for different car models.
You can easily find the right battery by entering your license plate number on the website.
In addition, Winparts is ready with tips and advice to help you choose the right battery.

At Winparts.co.uk you benefit from fast delivery and excellent customer service.
Whether you need a new battery, or another auto part, at Winparts you’ll find a large selection and knowledgeable customer service.

The battery is an important part of your car that provides the electrical energy to start and power your appliances.
By taking good care of your battery, you can extend its life and avoid problems.
Watch for the signs of an old battery and replace it in time to avoid breakdowns on the road.
For a new battery and expert advice, you can always visit Winparts.co.uk.