Did you know that heat is the ultimate battery killer? Unlike the below-zero temperatures in winter, which slow down the chemical reactions that power the battery, the summer heat can cause extensive damage.
Even if you take care of your battery during the summer, the accumulated damage can cause it to die during the winter months. The intense heat not only evaporates the battery fluid needed to power the battery, but it also speeds up corrosion, putting your battery at risk of failure.
Heat can worsen sulphation, a process that results in small amounts of lead sulphate remaining after you’ve charged your battery. Heat can exacerbate this process, further contributing to battery failure. Overcharging your battery is easier in the summer because the heat interferes with the charging system. Like all electronics, overcharging a car battery can decrease its lifespan.
Your battery may experience a chemical reaction called thermal runaway during extreme heat. This causes the battery temperature to rapidly increase and can lead to total failure and, in rare cases, a fire.
HEAT-RELATED BATTERY FAILURE SYMPTOMS
Your car may show signs that its battery is struggling in the heat. These include:
- Your car is having trouble starting.
- Electronic components, such as lights, A/C, radio, etc., aren’t working properly.
- The check engine light or battery warning light is on.
- The car battery case appears swollen.
- You can see corrosion on the battery pack.
If you notice any of these symptoms, assess your battery right away. Sometimes, you may just need to jumpstart or charge your battery. If there’s severe corrosion or swelling, you’ll need a new battery. If you’re unsure how serious the damage is, have it assessed by a professional.
