Battery is an important component in the car. It is a device consisting of many electromechanical cells that produce electric energy by converting stored chemical energy. The medium to generate electric power, electrolyte, in a battery is sulfuric acid. Since acids are dangerous and are harmful when contacted, take maximum precautions when dealing with battery maintenance. Avoid acid getting splashed to eyes. If by any chance, acid is splashed on your skin, then immediately wash it with as much possible fresh water, followed by soap water.
Generally in car, battery is kept in the engine compartment area. The battery might be placed in such a way that it can be easily removed for maintenance. In some cars, the battery is placed in the trunk. Wherever it is, you have to apply proper attention in maintaining the battery. The main thing to do is checking the level of electrolyte (battery water). In conventional type of batteries the electrolyte level can be checked by opening the filling ports. In new age batteries the electrolyte level is visible from outside. So that will make easy to check the level of electrolyte without opening the port. If the electrolyte level is less than the required level, then fill it up with distilled water. Do not overfill. New age batteries do not require battery water refill. No needs to worry about the battery water level, since the new generation batteries are manufactured with the latest technologies. In such kinds of battery, once its life is over, you are advised to replace it. Whip out the port areas and always keep the battery clean, irrespective of the type of battery you are using.
A typical conventional battery will be having a smooth life for 3-5 years. If maintained properly, its life can be extended up to 6-7 years. There is not much extra effort needed to apply, while doing the routine maintenance on batteries. Simply checking the electrolyte level, cleaning the terminals is the main thing that one can follow as part of battery maintenance. You can clean the terminal by removing the connecting point from the terminal pole of the battery. Use a metal brush to clean the battery terminal pole by rubbing gently. You can use baking soda mixed with distilled water and rub gently till you can see the poles are shining. With emery paper you can clean the inside contact area of the battery connector. The reason why terminals are cleaned and greased properly are to have an effective terminal contact, so that the electric power can be transferred to the starter helping for a quick start of the engine. The same way the electricity generated by the dynamo also can be stored in the battery if the terminal contacts are intact. This will help the battery in getting charged properly to its full power.
The battery has to be severely secured in the provided place with proper brackets. The brackets should not be loose. Loose bracket will be a reason for the shell or sleeve of the battery to get damaged. Once the shell is damaged, the acid will start leaking out that will result in damaging the life of battery. The cleaned battery pole needs to be covered with special high grade grease that can withstand heat. Greasing the terminal will protect the terminal getting corrosion and dust.
