Seasonal Battery Maintenance
With the onset of winter, outdoor power equipment, off-road recreational, and automotive batteries are more likely to fail. As a battery ages, the cold cranking amperage can begin to decrease. This can result in vehicles struggling to start and/or require jumpstarting from another vehicle. Routine maintenance can mitigate this. From cleaning battery terminals and connections, to complimentary load testing, and battery sales, Billy’s Auto Service can provide same-day service in most scenarios.
Summer Heat Waves
High temperatures can speed up the chemical reactions inside a vehicle’s battery, leading to overcharging and a shorter lifespan. To protect your battery during the summer, park your car in the shade or a garage whenever possible to keep it cool. You can also check the fluid levels regularly, as the heat can cause the battery's electrolyte to evaporate. Regular maintenance, such as inspecting your battery for damage or corrosion and cleaning the terminals, can also help keep it in good condition.
Winter Frosts
Low temperatures can slow down the chemical reactions within a vehicle’s battery, making it harder to start your car. To help your battery survive the winter months, try to keep it warm by parking your car in a garage or using a battery blanket overnight. It's also a good idea to have your battery tested by a professional before the cold season sets in to catch any potential issues early.
Transitional Seasons: Spring and Fall
Rapid temperature changes can really mess with your vehicle’s battery performance and lifespan, and in the Kootenays, we know all about those unpredictable weather shifts. During these times, it's important to monitor your battery closely and watch for signs of trouble, such as slow engine starts or dimming headlights. Routine inspections, including cleaning any corrosion from the terminals, can help keep your battery in good shape. Contact Billy’s Auto Service in Salmo to help with a battery check.
Knowing When to Change Your Battery
From outdoor power equipment to heavy trucks and equipment all batteries have a life span. In most cases, batteries have a rated life span of three to five years. This can increase or decrease depending on usage and environmental factors. Battery quality can also be a factor. Signs that it might be time for a new battery include a slow engine crank, a dashboard warning light indicating an issue, a swollen battery case due to extreme temperatures, and excessive corrosion around the terminals. Billy’s Auto Service has chosen to be a distributor of Interstate batteries, a proven and trusted brand, with a minimum one-year or more replacement warranty. Billy’s Auto also offers free recycling of any vehicle battery purchased elsewhere
For all those in Salmo, British Columbia and the surrounding Kootenay communities, Billy's Auto Service offers expert car battery maintenance and replacement services. No matter the season, our team can help ensure your vehicle’s battery is in top condition.
