Sharp Autos

Car batteries are the predominant resource and initial conductor to the process of engine ignition in automotive vehicles. They are also integral to the function of general electrical and lighting systems which are essential when driving under many different temperature, weather and light conditions.

Car batteries in normal automotive use are continually re-charged through the vehicle during motion and therefore only need other means when there is insufficient battery power to create ignition or when there is a general fault or failure.

Common car battery faults include

Prolonged disuse in a low or zero charged state (sulphation)

Shorted cells

Broken connections or terminals or plates due to vibrations or corrosion

Low electrolyte levels

Sulphation occurs when a battery has been left in a zero or low state of charge for a long period of time. Suphation is clearly evident from the formation of non-conductive lead sulphate crystals on the battery plates. These crystals block the passage of current through the electrolyte present and therefore inhibit the possibility of recharge.

Corrosion is caused by a number of factors such as water or dirty terminals/connections. A covering of dielectric grease is often administered when a new battery is installed to combat the effects and possibility of corrosion. This grease can be used at any time to help increase the longevity of the batteries lifecycle. When corrosion is present, the subsequent electrical resistance caused by its existence can prevent a vehicle from starting.

Electrolyte levels can diminish from normal electrolysis in the battery or from leakage or spillage. These levels should only be topped up with distilled or demineralised water.

Car batteries will predominately fail due the active material in the battery plates shedding and eventually short circuiting the plates themselves and rendering the battery unable to facilitate the necessary recharging process.

When an internal fault occurs the issue is generally only resolved by the replacement of a new battery unit itself. A battery should only be replaced if you are fully aware of the correct fitting procedure or have an experienced and qualified operative to conduct the fitting on your behalf.

In summary, car batteries are an integral part of many vehicle systems and whose maintenance is often overlooked and even neglected. Vehicle owners should conduct regular battery inspection to ensure terminals are clean, electrolyte levels are optimal and that they are rarely left in a low or zero state of charge for long periods of time.