Nothing could get more frustrating than trying to start a car that’s broken down due to a flat battery. This is one a common situation and all you might need to do is simply replace it. However, it’s significant to determine the appropriate battery for your vehicle as placing a wrong one could damage the car.
It could get a little challenging to figure out which cell size would be befitting for your vehicle. At helpful sites such as https://batterymanguide.com/what-happens-if-you-put-the-wrong-size-battery-in-your-car/ you can find insightful information on why it is important to use the correct battery size. Here are a few tips that can help you purchase the correct battery.
How to get a new battery?
With a drained-out car unit, you aren’t left with an option other than buying a new one. For those new to this, it may look like an arduous task, but this guide can make it simpler. First, you could contact your local garage.
Most garages are equipped with the facility of installing a battery. The mechanic should be able to suggest an appropriate cell for your car and your budget. Alternatively, you can source a battery yourself and fix it yourself.
The best thing is that it doesn’t require any advanced engineering skills to do so. The latter option can save you some money. Regardless of how you change it, note that the unit group size and the electrical system of the car need to be taken into consideration.
What are the types of battery and why do you need to know it
Knowing the type of battery your car needs can make it easier for you to find one and prevent you from buying the wrong one. Broadly, batteries can be categorized as wet ones and VRLA.
Wet batteries are lead-acid ones often referred to as flooded batteries. It comprises a liquid electrolyte that is recharged. To test its level of charge, you will have to check the acid levels in the unit. Evaporation of the water in this diluted liquid is common and needs to be topped as and when required. For the proper functioning of the unit, it’s important to fill it with the appropriate proportion of water and acid.
There are two types of wet batteries. Most cars are equipped with the type which functions on the three-way process of start-light-ignite. This uses the energy trigger method which helps in powering the lighting and ignition. It is the alternator that aids in running the unit once the car is started. The other variety is the marine battery that can be used for longer durations and doesn’t easily get ruined despite getting discharged.
The VRLA batteries are also lead-acid batteries but have a valve that seals the hydrogen. These make a safe option, can be stored in smaller ventilated spaces. If you are looking for a heat -resistant one that is sealed and does not cause any evaporation, the gel batteries are great. These contain a gel rather than any liquid and are resilient to shock. Check out ways to charge a car cell.
Once you’ve decided on the type that suits your car the best, the next important thing would be to check the size of the batteries.
Understanding the cell size
You must have gauged that the batter size has some prominent significance as we have been highlighting its relevance. Car batteries are also known as group size and this is nothing more than a term used to describe the basic measurements of the unit. It describes the height, width, length, and polarity of the battery by the industry standard.
Most manufacturers roll out energy units in standard sizes that allow vehicle designers to plan the engine compartments conveniently.
Finding the right group size will make it easier for you to pick a cell that fits can substitute the old one. Every cell has its description printed on its label. This means that you don’t have to physically measure it out. The battering group indicates the year of its manufacture, make, and the befitting car model.
Every vehicle manufacturer favors a specific battery group size. Some manufacturers prefer recessed posts on the top and a specialized ventilation system. Battery groups with top-post fixtures are widely used and known to be the easiest to replace.
Using the right size and type of cell is crucial as purchasing one with an incorrect size can restrict the cell from fitting properly into the compartment Moreover, you need to be careful that the cell post does not touch the hood of the car as this can cause a spark and in worst situation, it can lead to fire hazard in the electrical unit.
Also, take into consideration the on-road vibrations that your vehicle might be faced with. A right-sized cell will always sit perfectly in the unit tray.
Aside from its size, there are a host of equally vital things to look at when purchasing a new cell for your car. It’s common to be faced with a cell break down due to harsh climatic conditions. For instance, on a snowy morning, you find that your car’s engine not starting despite several attempts of igniting it.
Is your battery new and fresh?
Well, that does matter. Consider buying a cell that isn’t too old. Anything within six months from the date of manufacture is good. Every cell bears a code printed on it which displays a letter and number. The letter indicates the month while the number indicates the year of manufacture. However, this format could differ across brands.
What is its reserve capacity?
It is the reserve capacity that can help your vehicle sail through situations triggered by an alternator failure, non-compliant engine condition, or any such energy-draining accidents. A good reserve capacity can ascertain better backup so that the cell can run without getting discharged too soon. Follow this link to find out more about reserve capacity testing.
For those living in colder parts of the world or traveling to one, checking the power requirement feature is indispensable. Cells equipped with Cold Cranking Amps can start your vehicle even at freezing temperature conditions.
With the positioning of the terminals, its Ah capacity, and other vital features, don’t forget to check the warranty. With a warranty card in hand, you can be assured of the company repairing or replacing your unit if it malfunctions within the defined period.
