Your car battery is comprised of an electrolyte solution, with both positive and negative particles. As a chemical reaction occurs inside the casing, it generates power that is used to operate your vehicle’s starter, lights, radio, and other features. Unfortunately, heat from the sun can have adverse effects on this internal reaction. To learn more and prevent the need for emergency auto repairs, here’s what you need to know. 

How Does Summer Heat Affect Your Car Battery?

Particles move faster when they’re hot, and slower when they’re cold. This means, as the sun beats down on your vehicle, the particles inside your battery become increasingly active. This catapults the chemical activity inside the component, speeding up an undesirable side effect—corrosion.

As the internal parts within your battery corrode, the component gets weaker, and the damage may be irreversible. Hot temperatures make matters worse by evaporating the fluid inside the battery. As a result, your battery will die prematurely.

How Can You Prevent the Battery From Dying?

While most batteries last anywhere from three to five years, yours might have a shorter life span if it’s constantly exposed to the sun. To limit overheating, park in a shady spot, out of direct sunlight. For example, leave your vehicle in a garage, carport, or under a tree. Avoid idling whenever possible, and turn off the engine, instead. When it’s really hot outside, head to an auto repair center to have the fluids inside your battery refilled. While you’re there, have them check for corrosion and remove any buildup before it damages the battery.

To avoid the need for premature auto repairs, visit Heinrich Collision. Serving Hilton and Spencerport, NY, they will check your battery for cracks, corrosion, low fluid levels, and other types of damage, as well as replace it if it dies. With their 24/7 towing services, you’ll never be stranded on the side of the road due to an overheated battery. To learn more about their auto repair services, visit the website. Call them at (585) 392-7800 to request a quote.