Share

Tips to get your battery holiday-ready

 <b>HAVE YOU CHECKED YOURS?</b> Before setting out for a holiday road trip make sure you check your vehicle and its battery. <i>Image: Battery Centre</i>
<b>HAVE YOU CHECKED YOURS?</b> Before setting out for a holiday road trip make sure you check your vehicle and its battery. <i>Image: Battery Centre</i>

The 2014/2015 year-end holiday period is fast approaching. We hope you've planned your accommodation, itinerary and road-trip but have you made sure your car and its battery are holiday-ready?

Marketing director of First National Battery, Andrew Webb, said: “There is no precise way to predict when your battery will fail but regular battery checks can help ensure everything is in top working condition.

“It’s particularly important to check your battery before holidays and long trips to avoid unforeseen problems.”

WHEN THINGS HEAT UP

Drivers should be mindful of maintaining their car's battery. Older batteries can struggle during summer heat, especially if there’s a sudden and continuous use of the air-conditioner and other electrical accessories.

Webb comments: “Modern vehicles with a small grilleoften have high under-bonnet temperatures which can lead to battery problems that shorten battery life.”
 
WARNING SIGNS

Older car batteries require that battery water is regularly topped-up; most new ones are maintenance-free under normal operating conditions.

Webb said: “If you turn on the ignition and the car doesn’t start or the starter motor is experiencing slow or interrupted turnover or the headlights dim at idle, it's possible that your battery needs to be replaced.”

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE