The sole source of electrical power for your vehicle, the battery stores energy and provides power to the fuel system, the ignition system, the starter and most of the electrical components as you start your car. The alternator charges the battery while your engine is running. The battery also provides power to these electrical components when your vehicle is not running. To help prolong the life of your car, it is important to schedule regular vehicle battery maintenance and possibly have an auto battery replacement prior to having a ‘no start’ condition.

If you ever look under the hood of your car and notice a white or blue powdery substance on the battery or cables this is the dried acid which signals the beginning of corrosion. It is a good idea to have the battery and the cables cleaned and checked regularly. This will help prevent corrosion build up and extend battery life.

Here are some additional tips to extend the life of a car battery:
– Avoid shorter trips
– When the car is off, refrain from using battery-powered accessories
– Whenever possible, park your vehicle in the shade or in a covered garage

-Have your battery, charging system and starting system check every 6 months to ensure they are all functioning properly

– Most modern German cars require being “Registered or Programmed” when a new battery is installed. Failing to have this procedure carried out properly by a professional with the right equipment will result in premature failure of the new battery, over charging of the alternator and can cause other electrical systems to act up. Make sure you have a professional install the correct battery and carry out the procedure as prescribed by the manufacturer to avoid further costly repairs.