The battery in your vehicle is essential to allow it to operate correctly. The alternator will charge alternator helps by charging the battery allowing it to work properly. Without either of these two components you would not be able to run your vehicle. The battery provides electricity to start the engine, ignite the fuel, operate the lights and heater, along with other mechanisms. Batteries are lead-acid based and come in a variety of voltages, depending on what your car specifically needs according to the owner’s manual.
Components of the Battery for your Vehicle
Batteries utilize different materials that make up the component. Nickel, magnesium, cobalt and silicon tubes are all used to improve the cathode, anode and electrolyte performance. The anode is rich in lithium ions and the chemical reaction between the electrolyte and anode cause the ions to move to the cathode. This process causes the electric current that makes the vehicle move. The cathode is made up of different lithium iron phosphates, which are what increase the electric performance and range of the vehicle. Also, the electrolyte in a battery is a chemical catalyst. Without these components the different electrolytes and elements would not be able to work together to create the motion of the vehicle.
Reasons why the Battery might Fail
Battery problems are one of the leading causes of vehicle breakdowns. There are things you can do to avoid frequent breakdowns and keep your engine working efficiently. If your battery is being undercharged it causes sulfating, which is a chemical breakdown of battery electrolytes. When sulfation occurs, the ability of the battery to hold a charge and provide energy is reduced. When a battery is not used for a long period of time it loses electrical charge, eventually leading to a discharged battery. By periodically using or starting your vehicle, you are able to cut down on the sulfation process. When summer temperatures reach over one hundred degrees the battery’s rate of internal discharge increases, causing the battery to malfunction. This is also true if you let your vehicle sit in the winter.
Prolonging the Life of Your Battery
Batteries can be expensive, which is why it is important to do what you can to prolong the life of them. Turning off all of the electronics and other devices such as, headlights, radio, heater and GPS device before shutting off your engine can assist your battery. This helps your battery to not drain or run the risk of damaging the electrical system if you start your vehicle with these items turned on. You should have one of our auto technicians clean the battery regularly to avoid corrosion and deposits, which can interrupt the flow of the batteries electrical current. Also check for any loose cables on your battery and inspect the brackets thoroughly. Damaged brackets can allow the battery to move and vibrate and can cause damage to surrounding parts. If you plan on not driving your vehicle for a few weeks you should disconnect the battery, that way its energy is not being drained as quickly. This can help increase the reliability of your vehicle when you will need to drive it.