Caring for the starter battery: against the blackout
A guide to the starter battery in summer? That's exactly why! Although batteries usually only fail in winter, they already suffer in summer - and therefore need to be looked after.
The starter battery - colloquially known as the car battery - supplies the power to start the car, supplies the ignition system, fuel injection and, when stationary, the electronics so that they do not need to be reset every time the car is started. The starter battery usually reaches its performance limit in freezing temperatures, where batteries do not feel comfortable - especially with automatic stop-start systems, as more charging cycles cause them to age more quickly. Often overlooked: In addition to their large high-voltage drive battery, electric cars also require a 12-volt starter battery for low-voltage systems. And for starting - which is why the starter battery is also one of the most frequent causes of breakdowns in electric cars.
Please check regularly
A starter battery usually has a service life of four to five years. However, depending on stress, it can be due for replacement after just three years. It is therefore important to check it regularly and charge or replace it if necessary before it collapses on a vacation trip or in freezing conditions. If you want to check it yourself, you can do this with a voltage tester 30 minutes after driving. A good battery should show a voltage of 12.4 to 12.7 volts. If the value is lower, the battery should be recharged or replaced immediately - and you should rely on the garage for this assessment. What can you do yourself to protect the battery? Park in the shade in hot summer temperatures! Heat ages the battery quickly - then it will no longer last in winter.
The carXpert network
The name says it all: Behind the name carXpert is a Switzerland-wide network of over 280 independent quality garages and over 40 independent body stores - all experts for your car. In these multi-brand garages, every car feels at home with the qualified specialists because it is serviced and repaired according to the manufacturer's instructions with original equipment parts - guaranteed to keep the warranty! The premium network offers the highest level of expertise and service quality as well as, for example, assistance and used car warranties. The carXpert partners are also ideal contacts for topics such as vacation checks and starter batteries! Many offer a vacation check at reasonable fixed prices. This usually involves checking the starter battery. If a replacement is required carXpert partner a wide range from economy to high-tech premium batteries. carxpert.ch
*The content was created by the Autosprint editorial team in collaboration with carXpert. Cars of all makes are welcome in the carXpert garages and body shops.
