The 8 Most Common Car Battery Drainers to Avoid

Fear not, for we've all been in this position before. It's best to be proactive when it comes to matters pertaining to your car battery. So, how could this have happened?  

Several variables can result in a battery drain. Let's look at what some of the most common ones are.  

The 8 most common car battery drainers to avoid 

1. Human error  

We've all probably done this once in our lives when we've come home tired. Not entirely thinking about it, we've left the headlights switched on after parking. If not the headlights, we haven't closed the trunk properly, or have probably left the cabin lights on.  

All these factors, as a result of human error, could result in an overnight battery drain. While this is common, newer cars have the technological capabilities to turn off the lights automatically, or notify you in case you've left them on.   

2. Parasitic drain 

This one's a little more inconspicuous than human error. Parasitic drain occurs when any vehicular component continues to run after the key is switched off. Some parasitic drain is standard.  

For instance, your battery provides power to various components like the clock, radio presets, anti-theft alarm, etc. Electrical issues, such as faulty wiring, improper installation and faulty fuses, enhance the level of parasitic drain. This could exhaust your car battery.  

3. Faulty charging 

If your charging system does not work effectively, your car battery may run out even while driving. This occurs because many cars power their lights, radio, and other generator systems that can make battery exhaustion worse.  

If there is a load problem, the alternator may have loose belts or strains that prevent it from working. 

4. Faulty alternator 

Your car's alternator is vital in charging the battery and powers electrical systems like lights, radio, air conditioner and automatic windows. If your alternator has a defective LED, your battery may drain.  

An alternator (bad) diode can cause the circuit to change even when the engine is off. You will end up in the morning with a car that does not start. 

5. Extreme temperatures  

With extreme weather, whether it's hot (more than 100 degrees) or cold (less than 10 degrees), the temperature can cause lead sulphate crystals to build up.  

If the car remains in such a condition for too long, sulfate build-up can damage the battery in the long run. If you drive long distances, it can also take a long time for your battery to charge. 

6. Excessive short drives  

Your car's battery tends to wear out faster if you take one too many short drives. This is because it doesn't get enough time to recharge during the course of the drive.  

When starting the car, the battery puts out more power which leads to your vehicle shutting off before the alternator has a chance to recharge.  This explains why the battery doesn't last as long as it should. 

7. Corroded or loose battery cables 

The charging system cannot charge your battery when driving if the battery connections have corroded. They must be checked for signs of dirt or corrosion and cleaned with a cloth or brush.  

The loose battery cable makes it difficult to start the motor because it cannot transfer electricity efficiently. 

8. Old battery   

If your battery is old or low, it will not withstand a full charge. If your car does not always start as possible, then the battery is likely worn out. You're advised to replace your car battery every three or four years, especially if it's older or poorly maintained.  

If you suspect any of the above to be the cause of your car battery drain, it's best to get it replaced at a reputable garage. That's where Service My Car comes to assist you.  

We offer comprehensive car battery services, from providing a battery jumpstart, to taking your car to a top-rated garage near you to get it replaced. Getting your  car battery replaced has never been easier.  

You can get started on our website, or do it all using the Service My Car Super app! Request a quote by providing all relevant details about your car and the battery it uses, and proceed with the booking. 

Don't delay your car battery replacement. Get it done today with the help of Service My Car.