Charge It Right
Ethan Sullivan
| 11-10-2025

· Automobile team
Hey Lykkers! Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get much attention—your car’s battery. It quietly does its job every day, but when it dies? It usually happens at the worst possible time—like when you're already late or it's raining. Sound familiar?
Good news: a little bit of care goes a long way. Whether you're driving a gas-powered car or a hybrid, your battery needs some love. So, let’s dive into some smart, practical ways to keep your car battery running strong—and avoid those “click-click... nothing” moments.
1. Drive Your Car Regularly
Car batteries don’t like sitting still. If you leave your car unused for days or weeks, the battery can slowly drain—even with everything turned off. Try to take your car for a spin at least once or twice a week. Even a short 15–20 minute drive helps recharge the battery and keep it in good shape.
2. Check for Corrosion and Clean It
Pop your hood once in a while and take a look at your battery terminals (those metal posts where the cables attach). See any white or bluish gunk? That’s corrosion, and it can interrupt the connection and drain your battery.
You can clean it easily with an old toothbrush, a mix of baking soda and water, and a little patience. Just make sure the engine is off, and wear gloves if you can.
3. Don’t Use Electronics When the Engine’s Off
We’ve all done it—sat in the car with the music on, headlights shining, phone charging... while the engine’s off. But doing this drains your battery quickly.
Try to limit using electronics when the engine isn’t running. Your battery is meant to start the car—not power everything else when the car is off.
4. Make Sure It’s Tightly Connected
Loose battery cables can lead to poor contact or even electrical problems. Every few months, check that the clamps holding the battery in place are secure. A battery that shifts around can also get damaged over time.
5. Avoid Extreme Heat or Cold When Possible
Car batteries don’t like weather extremes. Very hot or very cold temperatures can cause them to fail sooner. If you live in an area with harsh winters or blazing summers, consider parking in a garage or shaded area. There are also insulated battery wraps that help regulate temperature—especially useful if you park outside a lot.
6. Know When It’s Time to Replace
Even with perfect care, most car batteries only last about 3 to 5 years. If yours is getting up there in age—or you’re noticing sluggish starts, dim lights, or strange electrical issues—it might be time for a replacement. Better to swap it out on your schedule than get stranded somewhere unexpected.
Final Thoughts
Your car’s battery might not be flashy, but it’s essential. A few simple habits—like driving regularly, keeping it clean, and checking the connections—can help extend its life and save you the stress of a surprise breakdown.
So Lykkers, when’s the last time you checked your battery? If it’s been a while, now’s the perfect time to show it a little love.