How does the heat affect my car battery?

When the sun is out, and the temperature rises, we all love to hit the road for some summer fun. But wait, did you know that the sweltering heat can impact your car battery? That's right! Let's dive in and explore how hot weather affects your car battery and what you can do to keep it running smoothly.

Before discussing heat, let's understand what a car battery does. Your car battery is like a power pack—it stores electricity that helps start your engine and keeps all the electronics running when your car is off. It's super important for your vehicle to stay charged and ready to go!

There's a science at work that we can't see happening in your battery! High temperatures can mess with the chemistry inside your car battery. When it's hot, the battery's electrolyte (a special liquid inside) evaporates faster, causing the fluid level to drop. The battery can't hold as much charge as it should, with less electrolyte, making it weaker. In hot weather, your car battery can lose its charge faster all by itself. So, even if you're not using your car, the battery might still weaken. It's like your phone battery draining when you're not using it much.

Now that we know a little more about how the car battery works? Remember we talked about the battery's electrolyte? When it gets hot, it can cause some chemical reactions, leading to a buildup of icky stuff called corrosion on the battery terminals. Corrosion acts like a roadblock, stopping the electricity flow and weakening your battery.

Let's review a few tips to help you keep your car battery cool and happy during the sizzling summer days.

Park in the Shade:

Find a shady spot to park your car whenever possible. Keeping it away from direct sunlight can help prevent your battery from getting too hot.

Regular Check-ups:

Get your car's battery checked regularly by a mechanic. They can ensure everything is in good shape and catch any issues before they become big problems.

Keep it Clean:

Check for any corrosion on your battery terminals and gently clean them with baking soda and water. This will help keep the electricity flowing smoothly.

The heat might make your battery feel a little low, but with some care and attention, you can keep it charged up and ready for all your summer adventures. If you have any concerns or need a battery test, contact a shop you can trust, like Ferber's Tire and Auto! So stay cool, keep your battery cooler, and enjoy the sunny rides ahead!