A man is working on the car battery using the help of needle nosepliers.

 CAR BATTERIES: WHY DON'T THEY LAST LONG IN FLORIDA?

Although the Sunshine state's mild weather might look nice on the beach, it's not good for your vehicle. Many believe that colder weather is the most damaging to the lifespan of your battery however, in reality the heat is more damaging. In cooler climates, car batteries generally lasts for 5 years or more. In warmer climates it's just 3 years.

Many Floridians don't realize the shorter lifespan of their batteries and are in a state of panic when their batteries fail before the 5 year mark. Here we'll explain the ways your car can be affected by extreme heat and proactive actions you can adopt to prolong its life.

HOW THE HEAT AFFECTS YOUR CAR'S BATTERY

An ideal temperature car batteries to operate at is between 77 and the temperature of 80°F. In Florida the state, we often have temperatures in the 90s. But what happens when temperatures get too hot?

In lead-acid batteries that are commonly used the liquid inside evaporates, which causes the sulfation process to occur. This causes dangerous lead-sulfate crystals develop. The high temperatures can cause the plates on your battery to shrink, which can happen when the battery expands or expands.

If the battery is at the rear of your car, like in a Cadillac the battery is less exposed to the sun's rays, and therefore will last longer.

How Old is Your Car Battery?

Every car battery comes with a unique date code to determine its age. Based on the manufacturer and the type of battery the date code could contain a number of letters. To learn more about the battery's code it is possible to find the format that is standard of the manufacturer.

Proactive Tips

While we can't alter the weather however, there are some ways to help slow the wear. The first is to keep up with your maintenance schedule will make sure that your mechanic is able to examine for corrosion and wash the area before it develops into an issue. Another suggestion would be to put your car in shade in the garage or under a tree so that you can avoid the sunlight.

When Should I Replace My Car Battery?

With the diminished battery's lifespan, it's essential to be aware of any warning signs that your battery is in trouble or in need of replacement. One obvious sign that your battery is dying is the failure to start your car. However, there are number of other indicators that could be present before reaching the point of. For instance, you might hear clicking or cracking sounds or your car might be slow to start. It's not uncommon for batteries to go out in Florida without warning. The car may start when you're heading to the supermarket, but fail to turn on when you get to home.

VISIT CITY AUTO REPAIR FOR A CAR BATTERY CHECK

It is crucial to take care of the battery's needs before ending having a car that will not start. Regular testing and maintenance can prolong the lifespan of your battery, and will keep you free of any issues.