Tips from Our Techs: Car Batteries

Your car’s battery is kind of like the heart of the vehicle—if it’s not in good condition, your car won’t be going anywhere. And yet, it’s one of the most overlooked components when it comes to regular maintenance. A well-maintained battery not only ensures that your car starts up every time, but it also helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and extends the overall lifespan of your vehicle.

To help keep your car running smoothly, our techs at Ice Cold Air have put together some essential tips for taking care of your car’s battery.

1. Keep Your Battery Clean

Dirt and grime may seem harmless, but they can cause your battery to degrade over time. Build-up on the car battery terminals can create a barrier that affects how well it charges and discharges. Regularly inspect your battery and in between trips to our shop you can use a soft brush and a mixture of baking soda and water to clean off any corrosion on the terminals.

By keeping your battery clean, you’ll ensure it has a solid connection, allowing it to function at its best!

2. Avoid Long Periods of Inactivity

For many Tampa Bay residents, this may be your second home (hi, snowbirds). Leaving your car sitting idle for too long can be tough on the battery. If you’re not planning to use your car for a few weeks, consider disconnecting the battery or using a battery maintainer to keep it from losing charge. Alternatively, try to start your car every couple of weeks and let it run continuously for about 15-20 minutes.

This simple habit can help prevent a dead battery and save you from the inconvenience of needing a jumpstart.

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3. Test Your Battery Annually if It’s Over Three Years Old

As your car battery ages, it gradually loses its ability to hold a charge. This is why it’s important to have your battery tested annually if it’s over three years old. Regular testing helps identify any potential issues early, so you can replace the battery before it leaves you stranded!  

Most auto shops, including Ice Cold Air, offer quick battery tests that can let you know how much life your battery has left.  

4. Protect Your Battery from Extreme Temperatures

Extreme temperatures—both hot and cold—can have a major impact on your car’s battery. In the summer, excessive heat can cause the liquid inside the battery to evaporate, reducing its lifespan. In the winter, cooler temperatures here in the Gulf Coast can cause the battery to lose its charge more quickly.

To protect your battery from temperature extremes, try parking your car in a garage or shaded area during the summer and keep it sheltered in the winter. If you live in a particularly hot climate, consider using a battery insulator to help keep it cool.

5. Have It Serviced at the Same Time as Your Car

It’s a good idea to have your battery serviced whenever you take your car in for routine maintenance, like oil changes or tire rotations. A quick inspection can reveal any issues like loose connections, corrosion, or a weak charge, allowing you to address them before they become bigger problems.

Routine maintenance can make all the difference in extending the life of your battery and ensuring your car is ready to get from Point A to Point B whenever you need it.

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Keep Your Battery Running Smoothly

Taking care of your car’s battery doesn’t have to be complicated. By keeping it clean, avoiding long periods of inactivity, and getting regular tests and servicing, you can keep your battery in top shape for years to come. Remember, your car’s battery is essential for reliable performance, so a little attention goes a long way.

If you have any questions about car battery care or want to have your battery tested, stop by your local Ice Cold Air or give us a call. Our team is here to help with all your car maintenance needs!

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