Think of the battery as the heart of your car. You need a battery you can
count on to get your motor running and keep it pumping all day long.
The
car battery is an essential element of the intricate network that makes
your car start and keeps the engine running. The battery powers most of
the car's electrical components and accessory structures, such as the
headlights, turn signals, fans, etc. While the alternator provides most of
the electrical needs of the entire car system, the battery can keep them
going in the event of an alternator malfunction.
There are many
batteries available at automotive supply stores, and it's important to
know exactly which model is the right choice for your car. The wrong
battery won't work in your car, and it may even cause damage to the
vehicle. Knowing which battery is right for your particular vehicle is
extremely important, and it can also help to learn about the various
battery manufacturers and automotive supply companies. You should only
have to buy a battery every few years, so make sure you're buying the
right one.
* Size Matters: Buying a battery for your car is like
choosing a pair of shoes for you. One size does not fit all. The size of
the battery itself is important, as it needs to fit snugly into the space
allotted under the engine's hood. If the battery is too small there is the
risk of it becoming dismantled and causing vibrations or damage. Further,
the battery will either be a top post or side post model, which will
determine how it fits and operates.
* Power Up: You need to know
your car's specific power requirements before purchasing a car battery.
Some cars need an 8-volt battery, while others require a 12-volt. There
are a number of considerations to take into account, such as the size of
the car and the number of accessories that must be powered. A huge sound
system, for example, can easily suck the life out of an average car
battery. A 12-volt battery should be able to maintain at least 7.2 volts
when the vehicle is starting and while it is operational.
* Chill
Out: If you live in a cold-climate area, it's important to check the Cold
Cranking Amps (CCA) before you buy. CCA is a measurement used to determine
a battery's ability to start an engine at 0° Fahrenheit, within a 30
second period. A higher CCA rating means the battery will start your
vehicle faster and more effectively in freezing weather.
* Get it
in Writing: No matter how well known the manufacturer is, you need to get
a written manufacturers warranty with your battery. Make sure that the
battery is in original condition, and is not a recharged model. The
quality and dependability of the battery you choose should be indicative
of the warranty you're offered. Make sure that battery is guaranteed for
the duration of the battery's life (ie: if you plan on using the battery
for five years, look for a five-year warranty).
* Keep it Fresh:
Whether you're buying bananas or batteries, you need to make sure they're
fresh and damage-free. Just because it's a piece of car equipment, it's
not OK for your battery to waste away on a stockroom shelf. Make sure that
the battery you buy is produced by a known and respected manufacturer, and
that it's fully charged and ready to start your car. If you're not
careful, you can run the risk of purchasing a fake or recharged battery.
Look on the side of a battery casing for a special label or decal. You'll
find the month and year that the battery was shipped from the
manufacturer's plant. The letters 'A' through 'M' represent months of the
year. For example, 'A' is January and 'M' is December. The letter 'I' is
not used. The numbers 1 through 9 denotes the year of manufacture.
Therefore, if the sticker on your batter reads L4, you know that it was
manufactured in November 2004.
A car battery provides starting
power to your vehicle, so make sure it's dependable. Understand your car's
requirements and know how to verify the quality of the battery before you
make the final purchase.
|
