Is Your Car Battery Melting Down? The Truth About Heat Damage

Summer’s here, and while you’re enjoying the sunshine, your car might be suffering. We often think of cold weather as the enemy of car batteries, but scorching heat can be just as damaging, if not more so. At AES, we’ve seen firsthand the effects of extreme temperatures on batteries. Let’s dive into how heat can wreak havoc on your car’s power source and what you can do to prevent it.

The Silent Killer: How Heat Affects Your Car Battery

Your car battery is a complex electrochemical device. Inside, a delicate balance of chemical reactions generates the electricity needed to start your engine. High temperatures accelerate these reactions, but not in a good way. Here’s what happens:

• Accelerated Corrosion: Heat speeds up the corrosion of internal battery components, particularly the lead plates. This weakens the battery’s structure and reduces its ability to hold a charge.
• Water Loss and Electrolyte Imbalance: Many car batteries contain a liquid electrolyte. Heat causes this liquid to evaporate, reducing the electrolyte level. This leads to sulfation, where lead sulfate crystals accumulate on the plates, hindering their performance. In sealed batteries, this can also cause the battery to swell or bulge.
• Reduced Lifespan: The combination of corrosion, electrolyte imbalance, and sulfation significantly shortens the lifespan of your battery. A battery that might last 3-5 years in a moderate climate could fail in as little as 1-2 years under prolonged heat exposure.
• Increased Self-Discharge: Heat increases the rate at which your battery discharges, even when the car is turned off. This can lead to a dead battery, especially if your car sits unused for extended periods.

Spotting the Warning Signs: Is Your Battery in Trouble?

Keep an eye out for these telltale signs that your battery might be struggling due to heat exposure:

• Slow Engine Cranking: If your engine cranks slowly or hesitates before starting, it could indicate a weak battery.
• Dim Headlights: Weak headlights, especially when idling, can be a sign of a battery struggling to hold a charge.
• Swollen or Bulging Battery Case: This is a serious sign of internal damage and requires immediate attention. Do not attempt to handle a swollen battery yourself.
• Frequent Jump Starts: If you’re constantly needing jump starts, it’s a clear indication that your battery is failing.
• Corrosion on Battery Terminals: While corrosion can occur regardless of temperature, it’s often exacerbated by heat.

Keeping Cool: Tips to Protect Your Car Battery From Heat

Fortunately, you can take steps to mitigate the effects of heat on your car battery:

• Park in the Shade: Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded area or garage to reduce direct sunlight exposure.
• Use a Car Cover: A car cover can provide an extra layer of insulation and protection from the sun’s rays.
• Regular Battery Inspections: Have your battery inspected regularly, especially during the summer months. We can check its voltage, charging system, and overall health.
• Clean Battery Terminals: Regularly clean any corrosion buildup on the battery terminals with a wire brush and a baking soda solution.
• Consider a Battery Tender: If you plan to leave your car unused for an extended period, use a battery tender to maintain the charge.
• Invest in a High-Quality Battery: A battery designed for hot climates may offer better resistance to heat damage.

AES is Here to Help You Beat the Heat

Don’t let the summer heat leave you stranded with a dead battery. At AES, we offer comprehensive car battery services, including battery testing, replacement, and charging system diagnostics. Schedule an appointment today to ensure your battery is ready to handle the heat. We’ll help you keep your car running smoothly all summer long.

Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be substituted for professional advice. Consult with a qualified mechanic for specific car battery concerns.