There are several things that you need to know about car battery maintenance. Here's how to clean and check the battery. Clean the battery's terminals with clean water. Do not use baking soda because it can cause corrosion. Clean the battery's container and verify the date code. Also, avoid extreme heat. To keep your car in top condition, you should drive it at least three times per week. While this may take some extra time, it's worth it.
Clean battery terminals
To clean battery terminals, first disconnect the cables from the positive and negative posts of the battery. Remove the positive and negatively clamps from each battery separately. Some battery cables are secured to posts by bolts. You may need special tools or pliers if you have corroded or excess corrosion. Before re-connecting cables, thoroughly clean the terminals. You should then apply a layer oil jelly or protective grease to the terminals.
Baking soda and water can be combined to clean out corrosion from your terminals. This solution should be very concentrated and should remove all traces of corrosion. Alternatively, you could use a specialized cleaning solution for your battery terminals that can be applied with an electric brush. This cleaner can also be used on batteries cables. When using this method, it is recommended that you wear protective gloves.
Avoid extreme heat
Avoid heat in order to extend the life span of your car's batteries. Keep your car's battery charged, cool it when not in use and keep it in the shade. It's a good idea for hot weather to wash and test the battery. A battery designed for warmer climates will have a higher electrolyte/lead ratio. This makes it more suited to high temperatures.
Also, excessive heat can cause corrosion in the battery. This corrosion can cause the battery to lose its ability to charge and may result in malfunctioning charging system components. Excessive heat will eventually destroy your car's batteries. This accelerates the process of corrosion. This can reduce the battery's lifespan and decrease its capacity. It is best to inspect the battery every so often to ensure that there aren't any signs of corrosion.
Clean battery case
The first thing you should do when your car battery needs to be in top condition is to clean its battery case. An unclean battery case can lead you to problems such as premature drain or cracks and even leaks. You can also conceal other damage such as bulges and freezing. It will increase the battery's life by keeping it clean. Here are some tips to maintain your battery case in top condition.
The corrosion can be removed by using a wire brush, or an old toothbrush. You should not remove any lead terminals as this can lead to corrosion. Finally, rinse off the case with clean water, then dry it with a rag. Use a cleaning agent if you have any remaining residue. Petroleum jelly or any other protective coating can be applied to the case once it is clean.
Check date code
You can check the date code of your battery to find out how to maintain it. Many batteries include a warranty that indicates when they must be replaced. The date code is located at the top, and is composed of a number and a letter. The number indicates the month and year the battery expires. If the code indicates "A" and "B", it is important to replace the battery before the warranty expires.
Different date codes can be found on car batteries depending on where they were made. Some batteries display the manufacturing date, others an "in service" date. It can be difficult to understand the battery date. If the date code for the battery reads "2014", this means that it was manufactured December 2014. The date code is used by manufacturers to determine when the warranty expires. You can still use your battery if it is less than 2 years old, but it may not be as efficient as it was when new.
FAQ
What are the qualifications for an automotive technician
High school graduation or GED is required with excellent grades in English and math. You must also be able to read, and write. The written test will be passed and you will then have to take several practical exams before you can begin work.
What can I do to fix my car as an hobby?
Why not make it a hobby if you're interested in cars? You could repair them yourself, buy parts for them and sell them. Or just have fun with them. It's a fun hobby that you can do if it interests you.
But it is not easy to turn this into your full-time occupation. It requires hard work and dedication. Also, you will need to put a lot of money into it.
You may not be able to have an emotional connection with cars unless there is a valid reason.
What is the length of an apprenticeship as an automotive mechanic?
It takes approximately three years to complete an automotive mechanic apprenticeship. This includes two year at school as well as two years as an apprenticeship. The first year is dedicated to learning the theory and practical skills of the trade. This year, you will also learn how to safely and efficiently use tools. You'll spend the second year in on-the-job training, where you will gain experience in various trades. You will have the opportunity for formal training during these years.
The final year is dedicated to earning certifications and qualifications in the field. These include NVQs. They are awarded after passing exams on specific topics within the industry. The HNCs (Higher National Certificates), on the other hand, cover general subjects like customer service and management. City & Guilds certificates can be obtained for individuals who want to learn certain trades.
Statistics
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
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How To
How to become a mechanic certified
These certifications are for those who wish to be certified as automotive technicians. They cover all aspects of auto repairs including engine diagnostics. Electrical systems. Brakes, suspension. steering. Fuel injection. Air conditioning. Heating. Exhaust. Diagnostic tools. Body repairs. Collision damage repair. Paintless dent removal. Motor vehicle emissions testing.
The program consists of 12 hours of classroom instruction and three months of on-the-job training at a participating dealership. Students must complete a minimum of 60 clock hours of classroom study per semester and pass a written exam, including theory and practical questions. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence will administer the state exam to students who have completed the coursework. To be employed as an automotive service technician, you must have ASE certification.