Today's cars have a lot more electrical demands than ever. The battery helps to start the engine. After the engine is started, the generator provides if not all, most of the electrical demands. Here’s how to maintain your battery, when to replace it, extend the battery life, and more.

How should I care for my battery?

The type of battery inside your Hyundai is what’s known as maintenance-free, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t need to be cared for or inspected by your local dealer. Take care of your battery with these simple steps:

• Close all doors and turn off all accessories when your vehicle is turned off to prevent battery drain
• Make sure your battery cables are properly secured, cleaned, and free from corrosion
• Ask your Hyundai dealer perform battery test with Hyundai approved battery tester to determine overall battery condition

How often should I replace my battery?

That depends on your driving frequency, distance, style, condition, and location.

If you take short trips often, you’re not giving your battery enough time to fully recharge. On the other hand, infrequent use where your vehicle sits parked for long periods also passively drains your battery.

Where you live can also affect your battery life. If you live in climates with higher or lower temperatures than normal, we recommend getting your battery check more frequently and replace as needed.

Not sure about condition and health of your battery? Ask for a complimentary multipoint inspection which includes a battery test the next time you’re at your Hyundai dealer.

How does the weather impact my battery?

Extreme weather shortens battery life. Scorching summers, freezing winters, and erratic temperature changes can lead to a weak or dead battery.

Your battery suffers most in hot climates. High temperatures can evaporate battery fluid and cause premature failure.

In colder climates, your battery works harder to start your car and keep it running smoothly. Your battery can also freeze and become inoperative as temperatures continue to drop.

How can I make my battery last longer?

You can extend your battery’s life by minimizing any electrical usage when the engine is not running. Turn off the radio, air conditioning, lighting, and unplug any devices connected to your car.

Your battery drains even when you’re not using it. If you plan on not driving your vehicle for a few weeks, disconnect the battery cables or utilize a battery maintainer. Driving short distances doesn’t provide adequate charge to your battery. Driving long distances on freeways can get your battery fully charged. If possible, keep your vehicle and battery in a mild temperature environment.

Routine battery check-ups at your Hyundai dealer and proper maintenance will get you the most out of your battery and prevent big problems down the road. We’re here to help give your battery the care it needs.

Our factory-trained technicians use top-of-the-line Hyundai approved diagnostic equipment to determine your battery health. Schedule an appointment to have your battery tested or replaced at your local Hyundai dealer today.