A car battery is one of the most important components of your vehicle, providing electrical energy to start the engine and power accessories.

Like any other part of your car, your battery requires regular maintenance to ensure it performs at its best.

While many car owners understand the importance of keeping their battery in good condition, mistakes during the maintenance process can lead to reduced battery life, costly repairs and even breakdowns on the road.

Keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid unnecessary headaches by steering clear of these common mistakes.

1. Discharging the car battery too much

If a car battery is discharged too much, such as from repeatedly using electrical components like headlights while the engine is off, this drains the battery, which can lead to decreased performance and reduced lifespan.

Making sure that your car's charging system works effectively, minimising the use of electronics when the engine is off and turning off lights and accessories when not in use are all ways to help avoid this happening.

2. Overcharging the battery

Overcharging a car battery occurs when it’s continuously charged after already reaching its full capacity, such as if the battery is left connected to a charger for too long.

When a battery is overcharged, this can cause it to overheat and damage the internal components, reducing its lifespan and overall performance.

To avoid overcharging, use a charger that’s specifically designed for your battery's type and capacity and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for charging time and voltage.

3. Using the wrong type of charger

Different types of batteries require different charging methods and rates, and using the wrong type of charger can result in overcharging or undercharging, which can damage your battery.

Always use a charger designed for your specific car battery, ensuring it matches the requirements by referring to your owner’s manual or asking a professional.

4. Not checking the battery's State of Charge (S.O.C.)

A battery’s State of Charge (S.O.C.) refers to how much electrical energy it has stored at a given time. Regularly checking the S.O.C. indicator lets you know whether it's time to recharge or replace the battery.

If the S.O.C. indicator appears black, your battery needs to be recharged immediately.

5. Not following manufacturer recommendations for charging, maintenance and storage

The manufacturer's recommendations provide important guidance on how to properly care for your battery, including the charging procedure, the frequency and type of maintenance required, and how to store the battery when not in use.

When the guidelines aren’t followed, it can result in reduced battery life, decreased performance and potential safety hazards.

Make sure to read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure the longevity and reliability of your car battery.

Keep your battery in good condition with regular maintenance

Maintaining your car battery doesn't have to be a daunting task, but it's important to know what mistakes to avoid during this process.

By taking simple steps, such as using the right charging techniques, you can keep your car battery in excellent condition and enjoy a hassle-free driving experience.

For expert advice and assistance in correctly maintaining your car battery, visit a Delkor^® retailer near you.