How to prevent a dead car battery

Driving less these days? If so, your car could be susceptible to battery failure. 

To find out why, let’s go back to Chemistry 101: batteries produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction – that is, electrons flowing from the lead oxide anode to the metallic lead cathode, through a solution of sulphuric acid. 

That reaction happens much more slowly when the battery isn't in use, causing the battery to lose charge over time. 

How long does that process take? It depends on several factors, such as the age of the battery, the weather, and the make/model of your car. 

Certain cars drain particularly fast when parked, particularly the ones with all the computerized bells and whistles that continually suck power even when the vehicle isn’t in use. Alarm systems, memory settings for radio and climate controls, etc., can all quickly drain a battery.

What’s the easiest way to prevent a dead battery? Simple: drive your car at least 10 kilometres, every three or four days. And if your vehicle is going to sit parked for a while, consider disconnecting the negative cable from the battery, or installing a smart charger that automatically shuts off once your battery is fully charged.

Don’t feel too bad if your car won’t start one day. Remember that the average lifespan of a battery is only about 3 to 5 years, which is why it’s essential to check its health by calling CAA. The CAA Mobile Battery Service can come to your home to test, replace and recycle your car battery – on the spot! Plus, CAA Members always save $25 on a CAA Premium Battery. 

Don’t wait until you’re stranded in the street. Click here to book your battery test today!