Olympia Auto Repair

Can Hot Weather Drain Your Car Battery?

When it comes to the summer, many drivers don't realize that the intense heat can take a toll on our vehicles. This is for a number of reasons, including the temperature increase, traffic, and using our vehicles more frequently. It's also common for vehicle owners to have trouble starting their cars during the summer. However, can the heat actually drain your car battery? 

Your vehicle's battery is important because it helps power your vehicle upon start-up and helps to keep your electrical components running. The anatomy of the battery is much like a battery you use at home like a AA battery in the sense that your battery runs on battery acid. Without battery acid, the battery doesn't work anymore and loses its "juice". 

What happens is, the warmer weather actually causes battery acid to evaporate quicker. This decrease in battery acid can cause a decrease in the battery's overall function and eventually lead you to need a new battery. 

Here are some additional ways in which you can protect your vehicle from the summer heat: 

  • Have your vehicle's battery inspected at the start of the summer to avoid a car that won't start
  • Ensure that your tires are always properly inflated
  • Check all important fluids such as brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and engine oil to guarantee that your vehicle runs at its best
  • Try to park in shaded areas
  • Never leave electrical belongings in a hot car

While the heat can drain your battery, parking in the shade, and out of direct sunlight for extended periods of time can help you. Also, being proactive and having your vehicle inspected here at Olympic Transmission & Auto Care can allow you to avoid car trouble over the summer. Give us a call or stop by today! 

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