While car batteries don't last forever, even with recent advancements in battery and automotive technology, it is possible to delay the inevitable and extend the life of your car battery past three to five years. One of the best ways to do this is to understand the factors that can shorten your car battery life.

Today, your friends at Christian Brothers Automotive are here to discuss 10 common things that can shorten your car battery, why they are harmful, and how you can avoid them to get more out of your car battery.

1. Frequent Short Trips Only

Your battery charges every time you drive. When you make short trips and don't give it enough time to charge, it can eventually die out. This happens because your car engine is not in use long enough for the battery to recharge fully. It leads to sulfation build-up, which significantly reduces its lifespan.

Even if you only have to drive short distances, take your car for a longer ride every once in a while to fully recharge the battery. This could even prevent you from being left stranded with a dead battery.

2. Not Driving Your Vehicle Regularly

Alternatively, if you don't use your car regularly, your battery will eventually lose its charge. This is especially the case with electric automotive vehicles stored in storage. If you don't use your car or drive it for weeks or months on end, not only can dust and debris accumulate in your car's engine, but the battery also goes through constant discharge cycles, reducing its lifespan.

If you know that you won't be using your car for an extended period of time, consider investing in a trickle charger to keep your battery fully charged.

3. Extreme Temperatures

Both extremely hot and cold temperatures can affect your car battery's health. In winter, the chemical reactions required to produce electricity slow down, starting your engine. On the other hand, high temperatures cause internal corrosion, which shortens a battery's life.

It's important to park your car in a garage if possible during extreme weather conditions. Additionally, you can invest in a battery blanket or insulation to protect it from harsh temperatures.

4. Parasitic Electrical Drains

Just like a parasite feeds off a host, parasitic electrical drains eat away at your car battery's energy. These can be caused by leaving the headlights on, charging devices without the engine running, or even not closing doors properly.

Turn off all electronic devices and lights when you're not using them. Getting into a habit of unplugging chargers can also help prevent this issue.

5. Corroded or Loose Battery Connections

Corrosion limits the power your battery can provide and prevents the alternator from charging it properly. Loose connections can cause similar issues.

Regularly inspect and clean your battery terminals with a wire brush to prevent corrosion. Ensure all connections are tight and secure to avoid any power loss.

6. Excessive Electrical Accessories

Adding too many aftermarket electrical accessories can put a strain on your car battery and shorten its lifespan. These additional electronics draw power from the battery, leaving less room to start the engine.

Limit the number of aftermarket accessories you add to your car to avoid overworking your car battery.

7. A Failing Alternator

Your car battery isn't the only thing responsible for keeping your car running. The alternator is also a vital component that charges the battery while driving. If your alternator fails and isn't providing enough charge, your battery will eventually die.

If you notice any signs of a failing alternator, such as dimming headlights or difficulty starting your car, get it checked and replaced if necessary to prevent damage to your car battery.

8. Starting System Problems

Other than the alternator, there are many other parts involved in the starting system of your car, such as the starter and ignition switch. If any of these components fail or malfunction, it can put stress on your battery and shorten its life.

It's crucial to get regular maintenance checks on your vehicle to ensure all parts of the starting system are functioning properly.

9. Overcharging

If you have an older car with a standard alternator, overcharging can occur. This happens when the voltage regulator doesn't shut off power to the battery and continuously charges it beyond its capacity. This can lead to overheating and damage to your car battery.

Make sure to get your charging system checked regularly, especially in older vehicles, to prevent overcharging.

10. Neglecting Regular Battery Maintenance

Like the rest of your car's components, your battery requires regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. Neglecting this can lead to issues such as corrosion and sulfation buildup, which can shorten its lifespan.

Be sure to get your car battery checked and serviced regularly, including frequent testing and cleaning. Doing so can help prolong its life and save you from unexpected battery failure.

Boost Your Battery with Christian Brothers Automotive

Knowing what factors can shorten your car battery's lifespan, you can take the necessary steps to avoid them and ensure your battery lasts as long as possible. Remember, a well-maintained car battery means less hassle and unexpected expenses down the road.

If you have any concerns about your battery's health, turn to Christian Brothers Automotive for expert advice and services to keep it running smoothly. Our ASE-certified technicians can complete battery testing and replacements, as well as alternator or starter repairs, to ensure your car's starting system is in top shape!