Summer is the season for road trips, beach days, and outdoor adventures.

However, it's also a time when your car's battery can be under extra stress as it endures scorching temperatures.

The battery is the heart of your vehicle. From starting the engine to powering air conditioning, safety systems and other creature comforts, a reliable battery supports a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

Whether you're planning a trip away or simply commuting to work, the last thing you want is to be stranded in the heat with a dead car battery.

With these essential car battery maintenance tips, avoid getting stuck in the heat and keep your vehicle running smoothly all summer long.

How hot weather affects your car battery

A car battery thrives at around 20°C, providing the ideal conditions for peak performance. However, when summer rolls around, many areas experience temperatures double that ideal range.

Inside your battery, there are chemical reactions happening to generate the electricity your car needs to start and run. Extreme heat can speed up these chemical reactions, making your battery work harder and wear out faster.

In addition, when it's hot outside, and you want to stay comfortable in your car, your air conditioner has to kick into high gear to keep you cool. This means it needs more power to run efficiently, putting even more strain on the battery.

That's why it's important to routinely check your car battery over the summer months. Doing this, you can ensure it’s in good condition and won’t leave you stranded with a dead battery on a sweltering day.

Summer car battery maintenance tips

Here are several essential maintenance tips to follow to keep your car's battery in great shape during the hot summer months.

1. Inspect your battery's overall condition, removing any corrosion, dirt, or grime from its terminals and exterior.
2. Keep an eye on your State of Charge (S.O.C.) indicator. If it turns black, it's a clear sign that your battery needs an immediate recharge to ensure it's ready to power your vehicle reliably.
3. Monitor the Open Circuit Voltage (OCV). A reading below 12.5V indicates that your car battery requires recharging to maintain optimal performance.
4. Pay attention to early warning signs, such as slower engine cranking or dimming lights, which can signal potential battery issues.
5. When parking your vehicle, avoid leaving it in direct sunlight for extended periods, as excessive heat exposure can exacerbate battery problems and reduce its lifespan.

These simple steps can go a long way in ensuring your battery's reliability this summer.

Head to a retailer for assistance maintaining your car battery

Summer battery maintenance is essential to ensure your vehicle's reliability, prevent unexpected breakdowns, and avoid premature battery failure, ultimately saving you time, money, and hassle during the hottest months of the year.

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