Why did my car battery last 3 years, now it’s only 1 year broken?
the age difference between the car battery then and now
Many car owners wonder why the car battery that used to last up to 3 years, while now the new car battery only lasts about 1 year. This question often arises among motor vehicle users. Not just an assumption, there is a technical explanation that explains the difference.
different battery workload
In the past, the battery workload on cars was lighter than modern cars. In the old car, the battery is only used to supply power to the lights and starters. There are not many electronic devices that require power from the battery. Therefore, the battery life can be longer.
Instead, the latest car has many electronic devices that require electrical power from the battery. For example, the engine injection system, ECU (Engine Control Unit), Fuel Pump, and various other additional features. In addition, features such as idling start stop also provide additional burden on the battery.
the effect of additional features on the battery
Additional features in modern cars such as head units, rear cameras, parking sensors, and other safety systems further increase the workload of the battery. In fact, when the new car is started, the battery has to supply power to run various electronic components.
Hadi, President Director of PT Wacana Prima Sentosa, explained that the workload of batteries in modern cars is much heavier than old cars. This makes the battery life shorter.
Technological developments and their influence
The development of car technology has brought many innovations, but also demands AKI with a larger capacity. Modern car batteries are usually designed to withstand high workloads. However, if not maintained properly, the battery can be damaged more quickly.
Some of the factors that affect the age of the battery include:
- The quality of the battery used: Many modern car batteries use maintenance-free technology, but the quality can be different.
- Improper use: The use of batteries that are not in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations can accelerate the damage.
- ambient temperature: Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect the performance and life of the battery.
- Less maintenance: Lack of routine maintenance, such as cable and battery check terminals, can cause problems.
Tips To Extend Battery Life
To extend the life of a car battery, here are some tips that can be applied:
- Make sure the battery is fully charged: If the car is rarely used, make sure the battery is always fully charged.
- Don’t leave the battery empty: An empty battery for a long time can be permanently damaged.
- Check cables and terminals: Clean the battery cables and terminals regularly to prevent corrosion.
- Use a good quality battery: Choose a battery that matches the specifications of the car and has a good reputation.
By understanding the causes of the age difference between the old and present car batteries, vehicle owners can be more vigilant in taking care of their car batteries. With proper maintenance, the car battery can last longer even though the workload is getting heavier.
