Maintaining Car Battery
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Starting your car at least once a week will be enough to prevent the battery from completely discharging. To do this, you should only leave your car running for 10 to 15 minutes. While you’re at it, turn on all of the car’s systems, including the air conditioning. This can help prevent the battery from losing its charge.
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Make sure to start the engine once a week to keep the battery from being discharged. Allow it to run for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the alternator to replenish the juice. Most modern cars with a fairly healthy battery should last at least 2 weeks, without needing to be started up to re-charge the battery. If there’s any doubt about the condition of the battery, start it once a week just to be safe.
Effects of Idle Cars
- When you start your car without driving it, or only take a short trip around the block, your vehicle won’t reach its full operating temperature. This leaves condensation in the exhaust and oil which won’t be burned off — and can cause damage in the long run.
Recommendations for Car Maintenance
- Get someone to start the car every two weeks and drive it for about 15 minutes if possible. Driving the car periodically has several benefits. It will maintain the battery’s charge, help the car "stretch its legs," and keep the engine and other components adequately lubricated.
Frequency of Starting
- The frequency at which you should start your car when using the battery depends on factors such as the battery’s age and condition and the temperature. As a general guideline, it’s recommended that you start your car at least once a week.
Caring for Stored Cars
- If you own a car but don’t drive it very often, it’s important to know how frequently you should start the engine to keep your vehicle running properly. Not starting your car for long periods of time can lead to accelerated wear and tear on its components, including the battery and other parts of the electrical system.
Starting Procedures
- Start your car at least once a week and allow the engine to run for 15-30 minutes. This can help prevent the battery from losing its charge. We also suggest putting your battery on a battery tender or disconnecting your battery.
Car Battery Charging and Maintenance
- Sometimes, you may need to jump-start the battery, especially if your car sat idle for too long. If the spark plugs are okay, turn off systems like the radio and the AC before turning the engine over for at least 10 seconds. Avoid cranking it beyond that.
Additional Considerations
- Sometimes, you may need to jump-start the battery, especially if your car sat idle for too long. If the spark plugs are okay, turn off systems like the radio and the AC before turning the engine over for at least 10 seconds. Avoid cranking it beyond that.