A 12-volt battery See one of the two most important components of any car with a combustion or hybrid engine. It is the one that powers the essential electrical systems and ensures that the combustion engine starts without hesitation. However, many times we only think about it when it's too late: the car doesn't hit, the headlights don't start, and unforeseen events arise in our worst moments. In this article, we share practical tips to extend the useful life of the battery and explain, step by step, what to do when it fails.
What is the average durability of a battery?
Under normal conditions, the useful life of a car battery varies between 2 and 5 years. Factors such as battery quality, driving habits and weather (cold or intense heat) directly influence its longevity. If you experience difficulty in starting, faulty lights or missing turn signals, these should be taken seriously.
Is it going to happen on the road?
It is common that a battery failure is accompanied by the loss of lighting and signal systems, which increases exponentially the risk of accidents, especially on expressways or with poor visibility. In these cases, security must be an absolute priority:
- Before leaving the vehicle to place the required triangle, do not need to activate the Help Flash. This autonomous lighting device does not depend on the car's electricity and makes the vehicle visible more than a kilometer away, even in adverse conditions.
- Positioned on the roof, the Help Flash enters into automatic operation by magnetic contact and performs the function of immediate signaling, protecting the driver and passengers while awaiting assistance or preparing for additional signaling.
Simple care to prolong battery life
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Avoid unnecessary downloads
Keeping the internal lights and multimedia systems on or charging devices such as the motor off will contribute to premature death of the battery. -
Limpeza regular dos terminais
The terminals must be inspected and cleaned periodically. The presence of oxidation or residue may compromise the passage of electrical current and reduce its effectiveness. -
Check the loading system
A faulty alternator or worn belts prevent the battery from being recharged correctly while driving. -
Avoid prolonged periods of inactivity
A car stopped for a long time can naturally discharge the battery. Whenever possible, it is recommended to turn on the engine at least once a week or opt for a charger that keeps the charge at the same level.
Or what to do when the battery fails?
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Confirmar a origem da falha
Checking for other vehicle life signals (panel lights, radio, central date, etc.) helps confirm whether the problem is in the battery. -
Use emergency cables
The connection must be done with care, respecting polarity to avoid damage to the battery. Be careful that, in some modern cars, power spikes can cause malfunctions in the car's electronic systems, including the ECU (control unit). Consult the user manual or contact brand assistance for certainty. -
Using a portable booster
A compact auxiliary battery can be an ideal solution in emergencies, allowing starting without the need for external help. Be careful with polarities and possible electronic damage. -
Contact professional assistance
If it is not possible to resolve it locally, it is recommended to contact a travel assistance service which, most of the time, is included in car insurance. -
Avoid risky methods
Jump starting a car may not be the most indicated solution or may not be possible, especially in modern vehicles or automatic boxes. Be careful that this method can also damage electronic components.
Após or start, or what to do?
After getting the engine started, it is important to keep it running for 15 to 20 minutes so that the alternator can partially recharge the battery. Subsequently, a visit to the office is recommended to verify if replacement is needed or if there are faults in the charging system.
How to pick up a new battery?
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Always respect the manufacturer's specifications
Consulting the vehicle manual is essential to ensure that the new battery has adequate capacity (Ah) and starting current (CCA). -
Opt for trusted brands
Battery quality directly influences the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Choose a product with a good reputation and warranty that is always more sensible. -
Check the battery type
Vehicles with start-stop systems, for example, require AGM or EFB batteries, which are more resistant to charge and discharge cycles.
