The worst sound for any car owner is when you insert the key and turn it, and all you hear is nothing. Any car owner will know that a dead battery can put a big wrench in your plans, but do not worry! There are a number of tricks that can be regarded as genius as they help to recharge the dead car battery automatically. Well, now let’s take a look at these life-saving hacks.
Signs of a Dead Car Battery
Difficulty Starting the Engine
If the car issues a weak starting sound or begins churning slowly, this could be a sign of a struggling battery.
Dim Headlights and Electrical Issues
Another area that is easy to observe, considering the battery, is headlights and electrical systems, which can be notably fuzzy and give signs of failure.
Clicking Sound When Turning the Key
Another sign that a car has a dead battery can be heard when the key in the ignition is turned on several times.
Preparing to Revive Your Car Battery
Safety Precautions
One always needs to put on safety goggles and gloves when dealing with car batteries. Make sure the key is not in the ignition and the car is not running.
Tools You’ll Need
Gather the necessary tools: DC jumper cables, a battery charger, Epsom salt, aspirin, and a reconditioner.Â
Genius Trick 1: Starting your car again
Using Jumper Cables
- Look for another car that has a strong battery and park it right beside your car.Â
- Screw the positive (red) clip on the dead battery terminals using your hands.
- Screw the other end of the positive cable to the positive terminal of the good battery.
- Fasten the black clamp of the negative cable to the negative post of the good battery.
- Let the other end of the negative cable connect to a metallic component of the dead car’s engine part.
- Switch on the engine with a good battery and let the car to functioning for several minutes.
- Try starting your car.
Using a Portable Jump Starter
- Turn off both vehicles.
- Place the clamp of the jump starter cables to the corresponding terminals for the dead battery.Â
- Switch on the jump starter, then attempt to start your car.
Genius Trick 2: Using a Battery Charger
Types of Battery Chargers
Trickle Chargers
These chargers are ideal in that they put a continual trickle charge into the battery to maintain its charge.
Smart Chargers
These can identify the state of the battery and then adapt the charging process that is utilized.
Step-by-Step Guide to Charging Your Battery
- Â Take out the battery from the car if need be.Â
- Join the charger’s positive terminal to the positive terminal of the battery.
- Join the negative lead to the negative terminal.
- Switch the charger to the right volts and amps for the battery to be charged.
- To charge the appliance, connect the charger and wait until it is fully charged.
Genius Trick 3: Reviving with Epsom Salt Solution
Why Epsom Salt Works
Epsom salt also aids in dissolving lead sulfate that deposits at the plates, increasing conductivity.
How to Apply Epsom Salt Solution
One tablespoon should be placed in a cup and should be dissolved by using hot water.
Take out the caps on the batteries and pour the solution into the respective cells.
Remove the caps and place them back, then shake the battery slightly.
It is recommended to recharge the battery with the help of a trickle charger.
Genius Trick 4: Using Aspirin Solution
Chemistry in Aspirin and Batteries
Writing a letter, you mentioned that aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) will clean the plates for better performance of the battery.
How to Apply Aspirin Solution
- Take two aspirin and dissolve them in a cup of warm water.
- To the solution, pour it into each cell of the battery.
- Flip the caps over and then give the battery a little shake.
- There are two chargers: a trickle charger and a fast charger to recharge the battery.
Genius Trick 5: Battery Reconditioning Devices
What are Battery Reconditioners?
These devices apply a high-frequency pulse to the battery to restructure the sulfate build-up and correct the battery.
How to Use a Battery Reconditioner
- Bring out the reconditioner and connect it in the manner described by the manufacturer with the battery involved.
- Let it complete a cycle of operation, which may be for a few hours.
- Check if the battery can still be charged.
Conclusion
It is quite a misconception to think that redoing a dead car battery can be such as herculean task. The following are considered genius tricks that would help to get back on the road as fast and as effectively as possible. It ranges from jumping your car battery, the basic material often found at home such as Epsom salt and aspirin, using battery reconditioning machines to anybody. However, to prevent similar problems from occurring in the future, do not forget about battery maintenance.
FAQs
Can a completely dead battery be recharged?
Yes, a completely dead battery can often be recharged using the methods described above. However, if the battery is too old or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
How long does it take to charge a dead battery?
It depends on the charger and the battery’s condition. It can take anywhere from a few hours to overnight.
Is it safe to use household items like Epsom salt on a car battery?
Yes, using Epsom salt is generally safe and can help revive a battery. However, always follow safety precautions.
How often should I check my car battery?
It’s a good idea to check your battery every few months or whenever you perform regular vehicle maintenance.
What is the best way to dispose of an old car battery?
Recycle it at a local auto shop or recycling center. Never throw it in the trash.