Do you need to charge it again, or has the car battery gone flat? Frustrating, isn’t it? Well, sometimes your ideas don’t let you purchase a new battery, so why not go for the reconditioning process of the existing battery? Battery reconditioning can bring your battery back to its optimal functionality, thus minimizing the need to buy a new one, which wins on the wallet and the environment.
In the guide outlined below, we will explain to you all that you need to know about reconditioning your car battery successfully.
Types of Car Batteries
The batteries found in cars are of different types, but the general ones are known as lead-acid batteries, which are of three types: flooded, gel, and AGM batteries. Each type has its characteristics, but they all serve the same primary function: supplying your car with an adequate amount of current to turn on the engine and various electrical pieces of equipment.
How Car Batteries Work
Car batteries act as storehouses of energy and utilize chemical energy to produce electrical energy via a chemical reaction of lead plates in sulfuric acid. This reaction generates the voltage and current required to fire the engine and supply the necessary current to the electrical systems of the automobile.
Signs Your Car Battery Needs Reconditioning
Slow Engine Crank
If your engine turns over slowly when you attempt to start up your car, then this will be a clear indication that your battery is not holding its charge and will require reconditioning.
flickering lights
Problems with lights are when there are low lights on the headlights, blinking interior lights, and many more, which are signs that your battery is not supplying enough power.
Check Engine Light
In some cases, the report notes that a failing battery could cause the check engine light to appear. Although this light can point to a large number of problems, one of which is a weak battery in the car.
Safety Precautions
However, most of the time, especially before you begin the process, you need to take adequate precautions.
Safety Gear
It is advisable to work with hand gloves and protective glasses to protect oneself from battery acid and other glandular risks.
Proper Ventilation
Take a lot of time to open up the room, as most of the building materials used may have toxic fumes that may affect your health.
Handling Battery Acid
Battery acid is corrosive. If you come across one, deal with it responsibly and estrablish the right ways to dispose to avoid causing harm to yourself as well as the environment.
Tools and Materials Needed
Basic Tools
You’ll need basic tools like wrenches, pliers, and a screwdriver.
Specific Materials for Reconditioning
- Distilled water
- Baking soda
- Epsom salt
- Battery charger
- Voltmeter
Step-by-Step Guide to Reconditioning a Car Battery
Removing the Battery
First, the connection to the car battery should be eliminated. First of all, use the same procedure to remove the negative terminal followed by the positive terminal.
Cleaning the Battery Terminals
One common remedy involves using baking soda and water to cleanse the battery terminals because the substance tends to accumulate rust.
Checking the Battery Voltage
Touch a metallic object with one probe of the voltmeter and connect the other end of the voltmeter to the battery terminal. The battery should be assessed at around 12 when fully charged, while a discharged battery should be assessed at a value less than 10 volts: 6 volts or higher.
Removing the Battery Acid
You must then safely dispose of the battery acid and for you to do this, let the battery drain into another appropriate receptacle.
Cleaning the Cells
In case there is a deposit of acid on the battery cells, wash them thoroughly with a baking soda solution.
Replacing the Electrolyte Solution
A new electrolyte solution is to be provided by mixing Epsom salt with distilled water. Pregnant each cell with the solution.
Charging the Reconditioned Battery
To recharge the battery, gently use a battery charger to avoid putting more strain on the battery. This may last up to 24 hours in extreme cases and depends on the features of the charger and the battery’s health level.
Testing the Reconditioned Battery
Load Testing
Conduct a load test to test charge under load since it may be possible to charge the battery when it is not used otherwise. A battery load tester should be used to address this.
Using a Multimeter
In the case of battery-operated cars, test the battery using a multimeter to achieve the most accurate voltage and always keep the car battery in its most appropriate operating condition.
Maintaining Your Reconditioned Battery
Regular Inspection
You need to check at least weekly for any signs of corrosion, leakage, or damage to your battery.
Keeping the Battery Clean
In your car, always see that the terminals of the battery are clean without any signs of corrosion, as this hinders proper connection.
Ensuring Proper Charging
It is also important not to overcharge or undercharge the battery again due to the reasons expounded above. Before charging, ensure you make use of a charger that automatically includes charge control.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcharging the Battery
Charging the battery above its capacity prolongs the time taken to complete the charging and has an abrasive effect on the battery cells, thus shortening the battery’s life span.
Using the Wrong Electrolyte Solution
Source: Use the right electrolyte solution. The wrong type can damage it. While using it, you have to be careful to avoid damaging that part of the battery.
Not Following Safety Guidelines
Failure to follow the required measures in a tragedy can cause one to get involved in an accident or sustain an injury. Always prioritize safety.
When to Replace Your Car Battery
Signs a Battery Cannot Be Reconditioned
The battery case may not be reconditioned if the battery is compromised due to cracks, leakage, or rampant corrosion.
Lifespan of Reconditioned Batteries
As much as one may endow his or her battery with an extra lifetime through reconditioning, the process is never permanent. A reconditioned battery will be good for 1-3 more years since it has been renewed, depending on the usage and care given to it.
Verdict
Recycling car batteries also prove to be quite practical, and this is a process of reconditioning them for use again. It might be paid to try out the ideas mentioned in this guide, save money, and help the planet become greener – why not?
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Times Can a Battery Be Reconditioned?
Most car batteries can be reconditioned 2-3 times before they lose their effectiveness.
Is Reconditioning Safe for All Battery Types?
Not all batteries can be reconditioned. Lead-acid batteries are the best candidates, while other types may require different methods.
Can Reconditioned Batteries Be Recycled?
Yes, reconditioned batteries can be recycled. Proper disposal and recycling are essential to prevent environmental harm.