How car batteries work
The battery supplies power to the starter motor, which turns the engine over, as well as the spark plugs, which ignites the fuel and air in the engine combustion cylinders. It is also the key to all of your car’s electrical systems. Batteries weaken over time, and the rate of deterioration can increase depending on the amount of work demanded of them and the conditions that they are operating in, for example, cold weather can limit battery power.
Do you need your car battery checked?
Unlike faults with other automotive components, a dysfunctional battery completely restricts use of your car, as it is the source of power that starts the vehicle. Regular battery checks can save you from a stressful breakdown by identifying when it needs replacing.
Battery testing is essential now more than ever because modern cars are filled with electronic technology like air conditioning, digital media systems and satellite navigation which increases the workload for your battery, which can lead to quicker failure.
It is especially important to have your battery checked at the beginning of winter because this is the time at which it is most strained. Winter months are darker, so headlights are used more and they are colder, so heating systems are used to warm vehicles and help to clear frost and the cold weather weakens the battery in general. At this time of year, flat batteries are the main cause of breakdown.
If your vehicle battery hasn’t been replaced in a few years, don’t leave it until your car won’t start, book a test at Specialist Vehicles in Plymouth.