Keys to extend the useful life of the battery

The battery must be adjusted to the demands and needs of today, whether it is a family car, public service, heavy-duty or a high-end car; and at the same time seek the least possible environmental impact. There are lithium ions, wet cells, calcium, among others.

In the past, it was quite common to do routine maintenance on car batteries to keep them running smoothly. However, at present, if not almost all, a large part of the batteries that are sold have as their main characteristic being maintenance-free, but even so, they must be taken care of so as not to have setbacks.

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The trend is that all modern vehicles continue to have a normal starter battery, which becomes a signal for continued use for many years.

Conventional batteries are composed of negative and positive plates separated by a polyethylene envelope; new technologies add to this polyester veils, as in the case of EFB batteries (Enhanced Flooded Batteries), or absorbent fiber cloths such as those of AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology. These types of batteries support higher voltages in hybrid systems with higher performance.

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For example, Motorex batteries have grids that are composed of a lead-calcium-silver alloy, which provides high resistance against corrosion and elevated temperatures.

These batteries are free of antimony, a material used by most of the brands that are marketed in Ecuador, managing to reduce water consumption and a faster start-up; This is basically due to the design of the plates, which are thinner, stronger and less restrictive, which allow us to install a greater number of them and with larger areas.

In the market there are several brands such as ACDelco, Mac, Ecuador, Motorex, etc.; therefore, it is important to know what type of battery is recommended for each vehicle due to the difference in amperage and size, but it is best to receive advice from a professional mechanic who should take care of the installation.

Extending the life of batteries

Many times the battery is not given proper attention until there is a slow start, dim lights, electrical problems, or the engine just won’t start. Specialists share some recommendations to extend its useful life.

• Use battery terminal protectors. This is a product specially designed to protect battery terminals from corrosion. “When installing accessories, the most important thing is the quality of these and that they allow maintaining the guarantee of the vehicles by the manufacturer. Another aspect is the support of whoever sells and installs them. Also, that they are from world-renowned brands”, details Juan Endara, spare parts coordinator for Teojama Comercial.
• The surface of the battery must always be clean and dry. There is residue that tends to accumulate that can be conductive and allow an electrical current that can cause the battery to discharge. Humidity will increase this problem.
• Start the car. If the car is not given continuous use, You need to turn it on at least once a week for it to get a charge from the alternator. Otherwise, it is advised to completely disconnect the battery.
• Avoid short trips. A journey of less than ten minutes or with several stops can be detrimental to the battery, since it does not have time to fully recharge.
• Avoid high temperatures. Intense heat can drain a car battery, giving this part excessive power. The car should be parked in a cool and shady place. (YO)