Woodhouse Ford Service Tips: How to Maintain Your Battery

Without a healthy battery, you won’t have a very reliable vehicle. This is why it pays to know what you can do to keep your car in good shape. The Woodhouse Ford service center offers these tips that can help you get the most out of your battery:  

Don’t Take Really Short Rides 

A vehicle has to run for a while to fully charge its battery. If you frequently take short trips, it will wear out faster. This is why you should drive for longer periods – aim for about 20 minutes each time. 

Check the Connection 

Another way a battery’s power gets depleted is if it has an inconsistent connection. It is important that your battery is installed correctly and fastened securely, especially if you often find yourself driving on rough roads.  

Keep Things Clean 

Over time, battery terminals experience corrosion, and this will also reduce its lifespan. Fortunately, cleaning the terminals is easy; a mixture of baking soda and water will do the job nicely. 

Stop the Idling 

Did you know that a lot of idling can wear down a battery? The same is true if your engine isn’t on but you still use the radio or other electronics.  

Have It Checked 

It’s vital that you have an idea of your battery’s health, which is why it should be checked at least once per year. A typical battery will only last for about five years, so it’s important to know how much charge it has left. 

Do you suspect something is wrong with your battery? Or maybe it’s just getting up there in age and you want it looked at? Make an appointment with the service center at Woodhouse Ford of Blair. 
Source: blog