How do I care for a 12-volt battery?

Although it's not uncommon to see them go through a full decade, even in Quebec, the normal lifespan of a 12-volt car battery is usually around 5 years. Of course, many factors come into play, such as where the vehicle is parked and how heavily its circuits are used.

Periodically, it's a good idea to check the voltage using a multimeter. It should be between 12.3 and 12.6 volts when the engine is off and the ignition is switched off. With the engine running, the charging circuit should raise the voltage to between 13 and 15 volts. If this is not the case, there's a problem and you need to fix it.

Here are a few tips to help you take better care of your 12-volt battery and avoid premature replacement:

1. As far as possible, avoid making many short trips with frequent stops and restarts, which places a greater burden on the battery and greatly reduces its life expectancy.

2. To protect the battery, it's also advisable to use synthetic oil for the engine, as it will run more efficiently.

3. Heat is just as much an enemy of car batteries as extreme cold. In summer, don't overuse the air-conditioning, as it increases the level of heat trapped under the hood. This rise in temperature accelerates the chemical reaction inside the battery, shortening its lifespan..

4. In winter, use a block heater if possible. Don't try to start the engine for more than 10 seconds, and wait at least 30 seconds between each attempt.

5. Clean off any dirt that may have accumulated where the terminals are attached to the connectors. After three years or more, this is not uncommon. Proper cleaning will prevent corrosion, which threatens to damage the battery.

6. Apply dielectric grease to the battery terminals or use an anti-humidity spray to prevent corrosion. Ask your dealer or a workshop if necessary.

7. Use a slow charger to maintain the battery's charge if your car is idle for several days or even weeks. This device plugs into an ordinary electrical outlet and transfers energy to the battery to keep it functional.

8. If the charging system warning light on your dashboard ever comes on, make an appointment as soon as possible to avoid ending up with a completely flat battery.

Has your 12-volt battery run out of charge or reached the end of its cycle? You can make an appointment with a dealer or independent workshop to have it replaced, but it's a fairly simple operation that you can carry out yourself in just a few steps.