There are many things you need to know about car batteries maintenance. Here's how to clean and check the battery. Make sure that you clean the battery's terminals and avoid using baking soda, which can lead to corrosion. Clean the battery's casing and verify the date codes. Avoid excessive heat. For a healthy car, it is important to drive it at minimum three times per week. Although it may take some time, you will be amazed at how much a healthy battery can make a difference in your car's performance.
Clean battery terminals
Before cleaning the battery terminals, you need to disconnect the cables between the positive and negative battery posts. You can loosen the positive and negative clamps individually. Some battery cables are secured to posts by bolts. Extra corrosion or corroded connections may require special tools or metal pliers. Clean the terminals thoroughly before re-connecting the cables. After cleaning the terminals, apply petroleum jelly or protective grease.
Baking soda and water can be combined to clean out corrosion from your terminals. You should dilute the solution to remove any corrosion. A specialized cleaner for battery terminals can be used, which can be applied by brush. This cleaner can also be used on batteries cables. Using this method, it is advisable to wear protective gloves while performing this task.
Avoid extreme heat
Avoid heat in order to extend the life span of your car's batteries. You can do this by keeping your battery fully charged, storing it in a cool area when not in use, and parking in the shade. It's a good idea for hot weather to wash and test the battery. A battery designed for warmer climates will have a higher electrolyte/lead ratio. This makes it more suited to high temperatures.
Corrosion can also occur in the battery when there is too much heat. The resulting corrosion weakens the battery's ability to hold a charge and can lead to malfunctioning charging system components. In general, extreme heat will eventually kill your car battery. Hot batteries also speed up the corrosion process. This can severely reduce the battery's capacity and shorten its lifespan. To avoid corrosion occurring, it is a good idea to regularly check the battery and clean it with a copper brush.
Clean battery case
Cleaning the battery case is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your car battery stays in good shape. A dirty battery case can cause all sorts of problems, from premature drain to cracks and leaks. It can conceal other damage, such as bulges. Clean battery cases will help extend their life. Here are some ways you can keep your battery's case in tip top shape.
Using a wire brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the case, you can get rid of the traces of corrosion. Be careful not to remove any leads from the terminals. It could lead corrosion. The case should be rinsed with clean water and dried with a towel. If there's still residue on the case, you can use a cleaning solution. Once the case is clean, you can apply petroleum jelly or other protective coating.
Check date code
Check the date code on your car's battery for instructions on how to maintain it. Many batteries come with a warranty stating when they need replacement. The date code is located at the top, and is composed of a number and a letter. The number indicates the month and year the battery expires. If the code says "A" or B, it's important that you replace the battery during the warranty period.
Depending upon the manufacturer, car battery codes may have different dates. Some batteries have a manufacturing date, while others display an "inservice" date. The battery date can sometimes be confusing and hard to understand. If the date code for the battery reads "2014", this means that it was manufactured December 2014. To calculate the warranty expiration date, manufacturers also include the date code on the battery. If your battery is older than two years, you can still use it, but it might not hold a charge like it did when it was new.
FAQ
Does it matter what college I go to?
No, not really. There is no difference between colleges in terms of how to get into the automobile industry. But, there are better programs at some schools than others. Look elsewhere if you want something more niche.
Is it hard to be a mechanic apprentice?
It is not easy but it can be done quickly. There are many opportunities for advancement.
You need to have patience and perseverance. You must also know how to fix cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
Customers and family members will put pressure on your shoulders to help you succeed. You should not feel pressured into making difficult decisions.
This could be an excellent career choice for someone who enjoys fixing cars. It is a job you can get a decent salary for and help build your business.
But, you might prefer a different path. Consider becoming a technician.
This is where you use your technical skills to support other workers. You might be able to assist technicians in troubleshooting problems or teach them new techniques.
Another option is to become an advisor in service. As a service advisor, you will provide assistance and advice to customers as they bring their car to a garage.
The decision you make will depend on what you are looking for. There are many options, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
How do I fix my vehicle as a hobby?
It's a great hobby to take on if you are passionate about cars. You could repair them yourself, buy parts for them and sell them. Or just have fun with them. This would be a wonderful hobby if you're looking to find something completely different.
It's not an easy task to make this a full-time job. It takes dedication and hardwork. It requires a lot investment.
If you don't have any good reasons to be involved in cars, it may be better to just let it go.
Statistics
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the job outlook for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029. (indeed.com)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
External Links
How To
How to obtain a mechanic certificate
The mechanic's certifications can be used by people who wish to become professional automotive technicians. They cover all aspects of auto repairs including engine diagnostics. Electrical systems. Brakes, suspension. steering. Fuel injection. Air conditioning. Heating. Exhaust. Diagnostic tools. Body repairs. Collision damage repair. Paintless dent removal. Motor vehicle emissions testing.
The 12-hour program includes three months of on the job training at a dealership participating. The semester must include at least 60 hours of classroom instruction and passing a written exam that includes theory and practice questions. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence will administer the state exam to students who have completed the coursework. Automotive service technicians must be certified by ASE.