Hi,we are here today to talk about your automotive battery. While the battery sometimes gets overlooked in terms of its importance to overall vehicle health and functionality, it truly is the heart of the electrical system in your car.
Through the years, there have been many advances in battery technology, however these advances do not mean that batteries don't need the occasional testing and maintenance. While there are several designs of automotive battery, two common types are the traditional flooded battery, which is the most common, and the AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat),
which is more durable when it comes to vibration and is used in some higher end vehicles. It is important to note that battery types are NOT interchangeable, due to the rate at which each type charges. With that being said, some cars can be programmed to accept either type.
It is recommended that you have your battery checked at least once a year. Failure to do so can lead to headaches and repair bills. For example, a battery low on charge can cause your vehicle to have difficulty starting or not start at all. And prolonged exposure to a faulty battery can cause components such as starters and alternators to fail prematurely. It is also common for weak batteries to experience issues due to significant changes in temperature. That is why people tend to see problems arise during summer and winter months. Most batteries have a life span of around 5 years, give or take. If tests show a weak battery when it reaches its later years, your best bet is to replace it.
In a nutshell, don't let your battery become the issue, give it the attention it deserves and save yourself some headaches and money down the line.
Thanks,
Joe @ ASM Auto