The battery in the car is an integral part of the starting system and without it, it is almost impossible to start the engine alone. The times of car models, on which the motors were started "manually" using a special curve of the handle, are long gone, and most of the systems of a modern car depend on the battery. A worn-out battery is not only a driver's headache, but also an opportunity to spend long hours waiting for a tow truck or, much worse, walking home.
Long service life is the first reason to replace the battery
Even the most expensive models of rechargeable batteries from world famous manufacturers of such products are unable to last more than 4-5 years. After such a period of time, the declared capacity will not really match, and will drop at least 5-8 times.
It's all about the process of converting lead sulfate into lead peroxide and spongy lead, which is more simply called battery charging. The reverse process occurs when a consumer is connected to the battery - the vehicle's on-board network. The more charge / discharge cycles, the faster the battery will wear out. And after 5 years, with constant operation of the car, there are enough such cycles.
Therefore, even with a still working battery, after 4-5 years of its impeccable service, one should think about replacing an autonomous power source. And less often turn on music, headlights and alarms with the engine off.
Frequent battery discharge under normal operating conditions
The following should be attributed to normal vehicle operating conditions:
- Ambient temperature is not less than 20-23 С0. At night, the temperature drops at least 10 degrees.
- Constant electrolyte level.
- Rated charge current from the alternator when the engine is running.
If, under the above operating conditions, the battery is still often discharged (at least 3-4 times a month), then this is the main signal that the lead plates in the battery are faulty. Accordingly, the power supply must be replaced immediately.
Advice! Do not rush to throw away the outdated battery. Almost all sellers of such products accept old power supplies, and this will serve as a discount for buying a new battery.
Battery boiling
Unreasonable boiling of the battery can only be a consequence of its malfunction. But before buying a new battery, you should make sure that the reason for the boil is precisely in it.
For this:
- Measure the alternator charge current both at idle and at high engine speeds.
- Make sure there is no short circuit in the vehicle electrical system.
If all systems are in good working order, and the generator gives the correct charge, then most likely the reason for the battery boiling is in the closed plates. It is not possible to repair such a power source, it can only be replaced with a new one. And this should be done as quickly as possible, since closed batteries often "shoot".