You can prolong the life of your battery by getting into the habit of turning off all lights, rear window heater and radio before you switch off the engine. Learn to carry out basic battery inspection yourself to spot potential problems before they turn into bigger ones.

Check it out
Some cars come with maintenance-free batteries which can be identified by their flat top with no openings. These batteries are not completely sealed and airtight, but have small vents to release gases as the battery is charged and discharged. Such batteries usually have an electrolyte indicator or “eye” at the top of the battery case to show the battery’s state of charge as indicated by the electrolyte level.

Each electrolyte level will be indicated by a specific colour shown on the eye. You have to periodically check the colour indicated to ensure that the battery is not discharged, showing a black or clear eye.

For older car batteries with removable cell caps, periodically open each cap on the cell to check that the electrolyte has not dropped below an indicated level. You can buy a bottle of distilled water at any petrol station to top up the electrolyte level in the battery cell to keep it at the right level.

Battery maintenance
Look out for cracks and other physical damage on the battery case. A cracked battery needs to be replaced immediately as the electrolyte in a battery is a mixture of sulphuric acid and water, which may leak.

Check the water level every other month. Refill the battery if needed with distilled water only. Tap water contains minerals and trace elements which could corrode the terminals.

Check for corrosion at the terminals or battery posts and cables. The first sign of corrosion is the presence of greenish-white crystals. A thin film of sulphuric acid may be deposited on the top of the battery too that can lead to corrosion of the metal parts around the battery. The top of the battery should be clean and dry. Keep the battery casing clean by washing it with hot soapy water and drying it properly.

Inspect the hold-down clamps and battery tray for damage and corrosion. Tighten any loose clamps as vibration from the moving car can damage its internal parts and shorten the battery life.

CAUTION: When inspecting the battery, keep all sparks and flames away as a battery gives out hydrogen gas, which is explosive. Remove metallic objects like watches and rings to avoid contact with the battery terminals and possible electrical arcing.