WIN a new battery valued at up to R2 500!
Three lucky winners will each receive a brand new Raylight battery valued up to R2 500 each. All you have to do is read the below tips, complete the form and answer the question at the end!
Does your car need a new battery?
A battery powers every electrical component of a car – so it’s vital to have a yearly battery check. And at some point, your car battery will need to be replaced.
Depending on where you live, how you drive, your charging system and a number of other factors, a quality battery lasts (on average) about four to six years. SA’s most trusted battery specialists, Battery Centre, gives advice on what to look out for, to check whether your battery needs to be replaced:
Detect the problem
There are tell-tale signs that indicate when your battery is running low. When you start the car, the cranking of the engine is sluggish and takes longer than normal. The interior and exterior lights may also flicker, then dim when turning on the engine.
Keep an eye on battery fluid levels through the transparent part of the battery casing. If the fluid is below the level it should be, it’s time to have the battery tested. Leaking also causes corrosion around the battery posts. This needs to be cleaned – otherwise your car may not start.
If the battery sign on your car’s head-up display (dashboard) is lit, it means there’s a problem with the charging system. If it appears while driving, it means the battery isn’t charging. The battery may still be okay, but the charging system needs to be tested.
Replacing your battery
Most cars have lead-acid batteries made of lead and lead-oxide plates. Over time, a lead-acid battery loses its capacity – it can drop so low that the battery won’t be able to start your car at all.
Extremely hot weather is the main culprit for shortened battery life. Batteries contain liquid which evaporates when it’s hot – which is why it’s advisable to conduct a battery check after the summer holiday. Your driving habits can also contribute to shorter battery life – frequently turning the engine on and off causes wear and tear on the starter.
If the vehicle is parked for extended periods of time without starting, the battery will need to be replaced sooner. Batteries last longer when fully charged – although overcharging can also do damage.
The battery experts
If you’re unsure about the state of your battery or don’t know how to conduct thorough checks, contact your nearest Battery Centre and let the experts assess your battery free of charge. Battery Centre specialists can check and fit a full range of batteries for any car. They’ll not only test the state of your battery, but also test the charging and starting system.
Proactively checking and testing your battery with Battery Centre twice a year will help reduce your chances of battery failure and ensure you have a smooth drive throughout the year, with no hassles.
Battery Centre experts are always on hand to assist with regular battery care and reliable car advice. Here’s where to find your nearest Battery Centre. For more information about Battery Centre and the full range of batteries on offer, visit www.battery.co.za or call toll free 0800 112 600.