Are you tired of constantly replacing your car battery? Well, here’s some good news for you! By making a simple check and investing in a £10 gadget, you can actually double the lifespan of your car battery. Expert mechanic Scotty Kilmer recently shared some electrical hacks on his YouTube channel that can save you big bucks in the long run.
Understanding the Modern Car
Modern cars are much more complex than their predecessors, with almost everything being controlled by computer units. While this advancement brings convenience, it also puts more strain on the battery. Mishandling the battery can lead to significant trouble for your vehicle.
Scotty Kilmer explains, “Batteries are a lot different than they used to be. If your battery goes bad, you have to register it in your vehicle. If you don’t, your computer will think your battery is old and needs more charging. As a result, it will overcharge the new battery. I’ve seen new batteries go bad in just nine to twelve months because they weren’t registered.”
The Importance of Battery Health Checks
Checking the battery’s health can be challenging without a scan tool. However, there’s a simple solution. Scotty recommends taking your car to a garage after getting a new battery. Many major garages, including Halfords, offer free battery health checks that may include this service. If not, the cost and time required to have it professionally done are usually minimal.
This simple step can almost double your battery’s lifespan, according to Scotty.
The Memory-Saver Cable
When replacing car batteries, it is essential to use a memory-saver cable. Disconnecting the computer from the power source can cause important systems to reset and require recalibration. This can affect your car’s idling and overall performance.
To avoid this inconvenience, you can purchase a memory-saver cable for as little as £10 online. Simply plug one end into the data port, usually located under the steering wheel, and connect the other end to a working car battery. Keeping a spare one around is a good idea. The memory-saver cable will provide temporary power, keeping your computer running while you change the battery in the engine bay.
Conclusion
By following these easy tips, you can extend your car battery’s lifespan and save yourself from frequent battery replacements. Remember, taking care of your battery is crucial for the overall health and performance of your vehicle. So, why not give it a try? Your wallet will thank you in the long run!