Colorado boasts diverse weather conditions year-round, which undeniably affects your vehicle’s battery. Your vehicle’s battery is vital, not only initiating engine ignition but also supporting air conditioning, lighting, the radio, and other electrical subsystems when the engine is dormant. Colorado’s regions, particularly those situated above 5,000 feet like Littleton and Highlands Ranch, face severe cold in winters. Conversely, the state’s plains can experience sweltering summer heat. Both can be detrimental to your battery’s health. For top-tier battery maintenance and diesel repair services, Highlands Ranch’s Branch Automotive has got you covered.
Common Battery Issues in Littleton CO, and Highlands Ranch CO
Some factors impacting battery performance include:
Cold Weather Drain
Temperatures below freezing impede the battery’s chemical activities, complicating vehicle start-ups. This can either slow down the start or prevent it entirely. Repeatedly trying to start the vehicle can quickly drain the battery.
Heat Stress
High temperatures could cause battery fluid to evaporate, which means a shorter battery lifespan. It also causes damage to the internal structure of the battery.
Elevation
The lower oxygen levels at higher altitudes can also affect the battery’s performance. The battery may have to work harder to turn the engine over, which means you use more power and drain the battery even faster.
Battery Maintenance Tips to Increase Battery Longevity and Decrease No-Start Conditions
Branch Automotive recommends the following to optimize battery performance:
- Regular Inspections: Consistently monitor the battery for corrosion and damage. If corrosion is detected, remove it to prevent increased resistance. If the battery exhibits any damage, consider a replacement. An expert from Branch Automotive can evaluate the health of both the alternator and battery. Also, ensure battery terminal connections are secure, as loose connections can contribute to slow starts or no starts.
- Maintain Proper Charging: An alternator that overcharges or undercharges can damage the battery. When the alternator is working properly, it should be charging between 13 and 15.5 volts. When the alternator overcharges or undercharges, it must be replaced.
- Keep the Top Clean: Dust and dirt can accumulate on top of the battery. Frequently clean it off to prevent dust, dirt and other debris from contaminating the battery terminals.
- Monitor Water Levels: If your vehicle still uses a lead-acid battery, check the water in it. If you do have to add water, be sure it’s only purified water.
- Avoid Exposure to Excessive Heat: On hot summer days, try to park in the shade to help reduce excessive heat exposure. Keeping the battery out of direct sun can increase its lifespan.
- Limit Short Trips: Taking a lot of short trips, especially under 15 minutes, doesn’t give the alternator enough time to charge the battery properly. When possible, take a longer drive or use a battery maintainer whenever the vehicle is parked at your home for an extended time.
- Increase Cold Cranking Amps: When it’s time to change the battery again, consider using a battery with more cold cranking amps so it has enough power, even when it’s frigid outside.
Cold Weather Battery Maintenance With Branch Automotive
Winter’s chill can be tough on your vehicle’s battery. Don’t get left in the cold! Ensure your battery is ready to face Colorado’s harshest temperatures. For top-tier battery maintenance in cold weather and other essential services, reach out to Branch Automotive.
Call us at (303) 771-2224 to schedule your appointment or visit us in person at 6030 East County Line Road, Highlands Ranch, CO, 80126-3919. Let’s keep your vehicle starting smoothly all winter long!
