There are many things you need to know about car batteries maintenance. Here are the steps to check your battery. You should clean the terminals of the battery with a dry cloth. Avoid using baking soda as it can cause corrosion. Clean the battery's case, and check the date code. Avoid extreme heat. To keep your car in top condition, you should drive it at least three times per week. It might take a little bit of time, but you'll be amazed at the difference between a healthy battery and one that isn't.
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. If you find the terminals are corroded or have excess corrosion, you may need to use metal pliers or another tool. It is important to thoroughly clean the terminals before you re-connect the cables. Apply a protective grease or petroleum jelly to the terminals after cleaning.
To remove corrosion, you can use a solution of baking powder and water to dissolve it. The solution should not be too concentrated and should remove any heavy corrosion. Alternatively, you could use a specialized cleaning solution for your battery terminals that can be applied with an electric brush. This type of cleaner is often aerosolized, and can also work on battery cables. This method can be used on battery cables, so it is important to wear gloves when performing the task.
Avoid extreme heat
Avoid excessive heat to prolong your car’s life. To do this, keep your battery well-charged, store it in a cool place when not in use, and park in the shade. In hot weather, it's a good practice to clean the battery regularly and test it. 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. The corrosion causes the battery to lose its ability and cause it to fail to charge. Excessive heat will eventually destroy your car's batteries. Also, hot batteries can accelerate the corrosion process. This can severely reduce the battery's capacity and shorten its lifespan. You should check your battery frequently to make sure there are no signs of corrosion.
Clean battery case
One of the first things to do when you need to keep your car battery in tiptop shape is to clean the battery case. A dirty battery case can cause a variety of problems, including premature drain and cracks or leaks. This can hide other damage like bulges or freezing. Your battery's lifespan will be extended if it is kept clean. These are some ways to keep your battery case clean.
To remove corrosion traces, use a wire brush and 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. To remove any remaining residue, use a cleaning product. Petroleum jelly or any other protective coating can be applied to the case once it is clean.
Date code
If you want to know how to maintain your car battery, you should check the date code on the battery. A warranty on batteries will tell you when they should be changed. The date code is located at the top, and is composed of a number and a letter. The number signifies the expiration date of the battery in the months and years. If the code is A or B, you need to replace the battery within the warranty period.
Depending on the manufacturer, car batteries have different date codes on them. Some batteries indicate the manufacturing date, while others show an "in-service" date. The battery date can be confusing and difficult to interpret. If the date code for the battery reads "2014", this means that it was manufactured December 2014. The warranty expiration date is also calculated by manufacturers. If your battery is older than two years, you can still use it, but it might not hold a charge like it did when it was new.
FAQ
How do I fix my vehicle as a hobby?
It's a great hobby to take on if you are passionate about cars. You can repair them, buy their parts, sell them, or just have fun with them. It would make a great pastime if you're looking for something different to do.
It isn't easy to turn it into a full time job. This requires dedication and hard work. It will also require a large amount of investment.
It is best to avoid getting involved in car accidents unless you have good reasons.
Are you looking for a career as an automotive mechanic?
Automotive is an exciting industry filled with opportunities for people who are committed to excellence. Working hard and learning from others is the best way to be successful in this field.
You'll need to have excellent communication skills because you'll spend most of your time talking to customers and other employees. You will need to be able and willing travel for work, making it more difficult to commute.
Consider taking classes at local universities or community colleges if your goal is to pursue a career in the automotive industry. Many schools offer programs for students who are interested to learn about auto sales, customer service, or repair.
Mechanical engineering is a good choice if you are interested in pursuing a degree. It is possible to earn a bachelor’s degree in only four years.
Many employers will also hire graduates straight from school. So, it is wise to begin searching for employment while you are still able to study part time.
After your education is complete, you will probably need some training in order to become an automotive technician.
This means you'll need pass exams like the Automotive Services Excellence (ASE), certification exam. This exam covers topics such as engine maintenance, brakes and suspension.
Once you've passed the ASE test, you can apply for a license issued by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
You can perform repairs on private cars by obtaining a license. In exchange, you'll receive compensation based on the number of services performed.
Not all states require licensing. You will need a license if you want to work in a different state.
Some states won't issue licenses until you have completed a certain amount training. If this is you, you may need another option.
What is the length of an apprenticeship as an automotive mechanic?
The apprenticeship to become an automotive mechanic takes about three years. The apprenticeship includes two years studying at school and two more as an apprentice. The first year is spent learning all aspects of the trade, including theory, practical skills, and safety procedures. This year, you will also learn how to safely and efficiently use tools. After you have completed the first year of training, you will be able to spend an additional year on-the job learning different 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 or National Vocational Qualifications. These are earned after passing exams that cover specific topics in the industry. Additionally, HNCs are Higher National Certificates that cover general subjects such management, customer service, and business administration. Finally, there are City & Guilds certificates that are offered for those who wish to become qualified in certain trades.
What are the requirements of an automotive technician?
High school graduation or GED is required with excellent grades in English and math. You also need to be able to read and write well. You will need to pass a written test and then go through a series of practical exams before being allowed to start work.
Statistics
- According to the BLS, total auto technician employment is expected to exceed 705,000 by 2030. (uti.edu)
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- 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)
External Links
How To
How to become an Automotive Technician
An automotive technician performs repairs and maintains vehicles. He/she can be found at auto shops, garages and service centers. He/she assists customers in fixing their cars, trucks or motorcycles. An automotive technician must have the ability to quickly diagnose and fix problems.
If you want to be an automotive technician, you need an associate degree from vocational school. After completing the program, he/she must take the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence certification exam. ASE stands for American Society of Mechanical Engineers. The ASE certification test consists two sections. One section tests mechanical knowledge; the second section tests practical skills. To pass the test you must go to one of the authorized testing facilities. These locations can be found online, or by contacting your local car dealer.
After passing the test, a candidate must pass a state examination before becoming licensed as an automotive technician. It varies depending on the location of the applicant. Some states require candidates to complete a training program, while others let them study on their own. Some states issue licenses to technicians as soon as they get their license. Others wait until they have worked at least six months as an automotive technician.
To get started as an automotive technician, a person should apply to a local automotive dealership. Most new employees work as apprentices after they have been hired. Apprenticeships last for three years. A student will learn to repair basic things like changing oil, adjusting brakes or replacing tires. They also learn how spark plugs are cleaned and inspect engine compartments. Some students will learn advanced repair techniques, such as changing shocks, installing air filters, and replacing engines. Classes are offered by most schools during regular business hours. However, some schools offer evening classes if needed.
Once a student is done with his/her apprenticeship he/she can become a master journeyman. Journeymen can spend up to five years learning how major systems work, including transmissions, differentials. They also learn how to adjust steering gear and suspensions. They are also taught how to troubleshoot electrical components and remanufacture engines. Because they have the experience and knowledge to do the job right, employers love hiring journeymen.
A candidate who passes all the necessary exams and gets a license might be interested in opening his/her own business. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 1.7 million automotive mechanic jobs were available in 2010. This figure is expected to rise 18 percent between 2009-2020. When a candidate plans to open his/her own shop he/she should be ready to invest thousands of dollars in equipment.
Automotive technicians' salaries depend on many factors such as the employer, whereabouts, education level and experience. A jobless person can expect to make $20,000 per year. An individual with a high school diploma can earn about $21,000 per annum. Associate's degrees earn approximately $24,000 per annum. Technicians with a bachelor's degree earn about $27,000 per annum. Master's degree holders make around $32,000 annually. Salaries are increasing so that a professional earning less than $30,000 could expect to make $40,000 in a few years.