Car Battery Services and Replacements in Ayden, NC

Battery Service FAQs

A car battery is a rechargeable device that stores and supplies electrical energy to start the engine and power the electrical systems of a car. It is composed of lead plates, sulfuric acid, and distilled water that undergo a chemical reaction to produce power. There are two types of lead-acid batteries. The most common are starting batteries, which are designed to start the engine with a quick burst of energy to start. Deep cycle batteries, on the other hand, can provide power for longer periods of time.

The average lifespan of a car battery is around three to five years, but this can vary depending on factors such as usage, climate, and maintenance. It's important to regularly check your battery's condition and replace it as needed to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Yes. Just like other car components, a car battery can benefit from regular maintenance. Below are some tasks that can help keep a car battery in working condition:

• Clean the battery terminals. Use a wire brush and post cleaner to remove corrosion and build-up from the battery terminals.
• Periodically, check the electrolyte levels in batteries with removable caps. If the levels are low, add enough distilled water to bring it up to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
• Regularly test the battery's voltage. You can use a voltmeter at home to measure the voltage of your battery or ask your Doug Henry Ford of Ayden technician to check it during your next service visit. If the voltage is below 12.4 volts, the battery might need to be charged.
• Make sure your battery stays charged. If your battery goes a long period of time without a charge it can lose the ability to hold a charge. If you don't plan on using your vehicle for a prolonged period, use a trickle charger or, if possible, take your vehicle on short drives in your neighborhood to allow the alternator to charge the battery.

There are several signs that may indicate that your car battery needs to be replaced, such as slow cranking or clicking sounds when you try to start the engine, dimming headlights, or a dashboard warning light. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's best to have your battery tested by a professional.

• Interior lights, exterior lights, or other electrical components that have been left on while the engine is off
• A damaged or malfunctioning charging system, such as a faulty alternator, voltage regulator, or wiring
• Extreme changes in temperature
• Normal wear and tear that occurs as the battery ages

If your car battery dies, you can try to jump-start it with another vehicle's battery or a portable jump starter. However, if your battery is old or damaged, it's best to replace it rather than risk further damage to your car's electrical system.

1. Park two cars close together so that they can be connected using jumper cables.
2. Turn both engines off and engage the parking brakes.
3. Hook the red jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery. Then hook it to the battery's positive terminal with a charge.
4. Next, hook the black jumper cable to the negative (-) terminal of the charged battery, then hook it to any unpainted metal surface inside the dead car's engine.
5. Start the engine of the good car and let it run for a few minutes.
6. Finally, attempt to start the engine of the dead car. If it starts, let the engine run for a few more minutes to help the battery stay charged. Then unhook the jumper cables.