When people think about car battery problems, they usually picture freezing cold mornings. But did you know that summer heat is actually worse for your battery than winter? That’s right—high temps can be brutal under the hood, and if your battery is already a few years old, it could give out when you least expect it.
Here’s what you should know about how heat affects your battery and how to avoid getting stranded this summer:
1. Why Summer Heat Hurts Batteries
Extreme heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, even if everything seems sealed up tight. When that fluid level drops, internal battery components can corrode, which weakens the battery and shortens its life. Plus, higher temps speed up chemical reactions inside the battery, which can cause it to wear out faster.
2. Warning Signs Your Battery Might Be Failing
Not sure if your battery’s still got it? Look for:
- Slow engine cranking
- Dim headlights, especially at idle
- Electrical issues (radio, power windows acting up)
- The battery warning light on your dash
- A battery that’s more than 3 years old
If your car is showing any of these symptoms, don’t wait until you’re stuck in a parking lot with a dead battery.
3. What You Can Do
- Get It Tested: A simple battery test can tell you how much life is left. We do this all the time, and it only takes a few minutes.
- Inspect the Terminals: Make sure there’s no corrosion around the battery posts. A little white or greenish buildup can block the flow of electricity.
- Keep It Clean: Heat + grime = trouble. Keeping your battery area clean helps it stay cooler and run better.
- Avoid Short Trips: Frequent short drives don’t give your battery enough time to recharge. If possible, combine errands into longer trips.
Beat the Heat with a Battery Check
Before summer hits full swing, stop by for a free battery inspection. Our ASE-certified technicians will test your battery, clean up the terminals if needed, and help you decide if it’s time for a replacement. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it might just save your summer.
Visit one of our central Mississippi locations today and keep your summer rolling—with confidence.
