When your battery has died, there are several causes you can look for. These include heat, corrosion, parasitic drain, and a weak battery. If any of these are the case, you should contact a mechanic to have it repaired. This will be more cost effective in the long run. You should also consider the use of an additional battery charger if you are traveling a long distance.

Corrosion

Battery corrosion is a serious problem for your vehicle, but luckily, there are a few easy ways to clean it. One of the simplest methods is using a baking soda and water mixture. The baking soda causes a chemical reaction, which loosens the corrosion. Simply soak the battery clamp in the solution and leave it for at least 20 minutes.

Corrosion can also damage the battery terminals, which are critical to the car's electrical system. When the terminals are corroded, electricity cannot flow through them. As a result, the car will not crank, and it will lose power.

Heat

Dead battery heat is detrimental to a battery's performance. Not only does it deteriorate the battery's capacity and starting power, but it can also cause the battery to vibrate, destroying its internal components and ultimately resulting in a failure. In addition, dead battery heat accelerates the growth of lead sulfate crystals, which disrupt the plate structure.

The chemistry inside the battery is sensitive to temperature, and the high temperatures of summer can significantly shorten the battery's life. High temperatures can also affect the voltage regulator, causing it to malfunction. Ultimately, a dead battery can lead to stranded motorists.

Parasitic drain

Parasitic drain is a type of drain that can kill a battery. It is caused by a short circuit or electrical device that remains "on" when it should be off. Common examples include a faulty light switch that allows the lights to come on when they shouldn't be. In addition, many modern vehicles have complicated systems that drain the battery, even if the engine is turned off.

A clamp meter can be used to determine whether your battery is suffering from parasitic drain. If it is, remove the fuse or two and look for the culprit. In some cases, the parasitic drain is caused by a vacuum evap system. This drain can cause a dead battery and should be diagnosed by a tech.

Weak battery

A weak battery can cause a number of problems in your car. It may not start, give off the wrong light, or result in poor gas mileage. It may also cause your engine to overheat. And if you have powered accessories such as a radio, you may find that they are not working as well as they should be.

Weak batteries also put stress on the electrical and mechanical systems in your car, making the vehicle less reliable. This can affect the performance of the computer and other systems in your car. Generally, batteries last for three to five years, so if you notice your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan, replace it.

Severe temperatures

A dead battery in a vehicle can put the driver and passengers in the cold for a long time. Therefore, it is important to stock an emergency kit that includes warm blankets, a phone battery bank, water, and snacks. In extreme conditions, you may also need flares. A jumper cable is also an essential item that you should keep in your vehicle.