7.1. Electrical System Maintenance: Battery

The battery is one of the most critical components of a vehicle's electrical system. It provides the power needed to start the engine and power the electronics when the engine is off. Therefore, proper battery maintenance is essential to ensure proper vehicle operation.

Understanding the Car Battery

A car battery is a device that stores electrical energy and supplies it to the vehicle. It is made up of individual cells, each producing about 2 volts. A typical 12-volt battery has six of these cells connected in series. Each cell contains lead plates submerged in a sulfuric acid solution, which creates a chemical reaction that produces electrons - the energy the car uses.

Regular Battery Check

The first step in car battery maintenance is regular checking. This must be done at least once a month. The check should include visual inspection of the battery for any signs of physical damage or corrosion build-up on the terminals. Also, the battery charge should be checked using a voltmeter.

Cleaning the Battery Terminals

Battery terminals are the connection points where power is transferred from the battery to the vehicle. If they are corroded, energy transfer can be impaired, resulting in problems starting or operating the vehicle's electrical systems. Cleaning the battery terminals can be done using a baking soda and water solution to neutralize the acid and a wire brush to remove corrosion.

Electrolyte Level Check

The electrolyte is the sulfuric acid solution inside the battery that facilitates the production of electrons. The level of this liquid must be maintained between the "minimum" and "maximum" marks on the battery body. If the level is low, it must be topped up with distilled water.

Battery Load Test

A battery load test is a way to check the battery's ability to hold a charge. This can be done using a battery load tester, which applies a load to the battery and measures its ability to maintain a specific voltage. If the battery cannot maintain the required voltage, it is likely defective and needs to be replaced.

Battery Replacement

If the battery fails any of the above tests, or if it is more than three years old, it will likely need to be replaced. Battery replacement is a simple process that involves removing the old battery, cleaning the battery compartment and installing the new battery.

In conclusion, proper battery maintenance is essential to ensure reliable vehicle operation. This includes regular checks, cleaning the terminals, checking the electrolyte level, testing the load and, if necessary, replacing the battery. Preventive maintenance can help prevent problems in the future and extend battery life.