Cars rarely used? This is how to keep the battery durable
Tips for Caring for Car Batteries that are Rarely Used
Cars that are rarely used often have problems with the battery, especially because the electrical power is not charged enough. This can cause the battery to become weak and even damaged for a certain period of time. However, this problem can be prevented with a few simple steps that can be taken by vehicle owners.
One of the recommended ways is to heat the car engine regularly. Even if the car is not used every day, it is important to keep the battery condition stable. Arif Nurahman, the owner of the Aki Jaya Battery shop in Cibubur, Depok, suggested that the car be heated at least every 2-3 days for 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps keep the battery charged and prevents running out of power.
In addition, vehicle users need to be careful in using electronic devices such as audio or air conditioning. The use of the tool when the engine is off can cause the battery to drain without any recharging from the alternator. Thus, you should avoid activating electronic devices when the car is not starting.
Another important treatment is to maintain the cleanliness of the battery poles. Dirt or corrosion that sticks to the poles can block the flow of electricity, thus affecting the performance of the battery. Vehicle owners are advised to clean the battery poles regularly so that there are no disturbances in the car’s electrical system.
For wet battery users, it is also important to check the level of the electrolyte fluid regularly. If the liquid level is reduced, fill it immediately so as not to damage the components in the battery. This treatment is very important to maintain the life of the battery and prevent further damage.
If the car is not used for more than 2-3 weeks, Arif suggests additional steps. One of them is to unplug the battery cable starting from the negative pole. This method helps prevent battery discharge due to continuous small currents. In addition, users can also use the battery charger to keep the power charged.
By doing the steps above, a car battery that is rarely used can still be durable and ready to be reused. This simple maintenance not only helps maintain the condition of the battery, but also saves the cost of repairing or replacing the battery in the future.
Vehicle owners need to be aware that battery maintenance is not only carried out when the car is used regularly, but also when the car is in an inactive condition. With sufficient awareness and attention, the battery will continue to function optimally and provide comfort and safety when driving.
