Have you ever felt lost in a maze of car battery myths? Don't worry, you're not alone. It's easy to get caught up in the battery banter and believe some tall tales you read online, but like your granny always said, you shouldn’t believe everything people say.
We're here to set the record straight and debunk ten of the most common car battery myths.
Myth 1: Driving regularly charges the battery fully
Let's get this one straight: Driving can definitely help recharge your battery, but it's not a one-way ticket to a fully juiced-up power source for your vehicle. Think of it like a marathon runner – you need to push yourself to the limits to get that full charge. Short trips, like popping to the shops down the road, might not be enough to top up your battery, especially if you've got a bunch of electrical accessories draining its energy.
Myth 2: Older batteries last longer
Ah, the classic "back in my day" argument. While it's true that batteries used to be built like tanks, it’s fair to say modern technology has come a long way. Newer batteries are often packed with features and advancements that make them last longer and perform better. So, don't be afraid to upgrade to a newer model. Your car will thank you.
Myth 3: Leaving the lights on is the only way to drain a battery
Sure, leaving your lights on can be a battery killer, but it's not the only culprit. Think of all those other electrical accessories – your radio, your heated seats, your fancy gadgets (GPS, Phone charger, dash cam, etc) – they're all sucking up power. So, if you're not using them, turn them off. Your battery will appreciate it.
Myth 4: All car batteries are the same
This is like saying all cars are the same. Sure, they all have four wheels and an engine, but there are a ton of differences under the hood. Car batteries are no different. They come in various types, like lead-acid, gel, AGM and lithium-ion. Each type has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to choose the right one for your vehicle.
Myth 5: Jump-starting a car damages the battery
While frequent jump-starts can be a bit rough on your battery, an occasional boost is generally safe. But if you're finding yourself jump-starting your car more often than you'd like, it might be a sign of an underlying issue and time to get yourself a replacement from one of our Brisbane stores.
Myth 6: A higher CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) rating means a longer battery life
Don't be fooled by the shiny CCA number. While a higher CCA rating is important for starting your car in cold weather, it doesn't guarantee a longer battery life. Factors like battery type, maintenance and usage conditions also play a role in how long your battery lives.
Myth 7: You can add water to a maintenance-free battery
Maintenance-free batteries are designed to be sealed and require no water maintenance. Attempting to add water to a maintenance-free battery can damage it.
Myth 8: Storing a battery in a cold place will prolong its life
Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can shorten a battery's lifespan. Ideally, store your battery in a cool, dry place.
Myth 9: A battery tester can tell you the exact remaining life of your battery
While a battery tester can provide a good indication of a battery's health, it doesn't guarantee its exact remaining life. Factors like usage patterns and maintenance can also affect your battery’s lifespan.
Myth 10: You can recharge a battery with a charger even if it's frozen
This one is more for our southern cousins as it’s pretty unlikely you’re going to get a frozen battery up here in Queensland. Attempting to charge a frozen battery can damage it. Always allow a frozen battery to thaw before attempting to charge it.
So there you have it, ten of the most common myths about car batteries. If you’re still not sure about something or would like some expert advice on car batteries, feel free to contact us to chat with one of our experts.
