Everything You Need To Know About Your Car's Battery

Unfortunately, cars don't magically start moving like they do in The Flintstones. Instead, they have to rely on the car battery's power, which ignites a spark in the engine and starts the car. In the current market, three battery designs are used in cars we drive today; flooded batteries, VRLA batteries, and lithium-ion batteries. What's the point of each battery? Well, it's essential to know how your battery works, as it's a vital part of any car; it powers everything from your lights to the music system.

Luckily with Wrench, dealing with your battery can be a thing of the past, as we offer diagnostics and can replace your battery if needed. It's as simple as clicking on the free quote button above and filling out information about your vehicle. See for yourself the benefits of having our mobile technicians come to you! You can check out our Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn for more information.

Types of Batteries

With the current production of flooded, VRLA, and lithium-ion batteries, cars have about eight types of batteries at their disposal. Depending on the manufacture, purpose, and size of the vehicle, the type of battery used can vary. Batteries can vary in size and each have their own advantages and disadvantages, if you don't what type your vehicle is using, a Wrench mobile mechanic can help! Here are the most common ones you can find being used today:

• Flooded Lead Acid Battery:
  Being the oldest type of battery used today, it has the advantages of being affordable and common to find. It is classified as a wet cell battery encased in a sulfuric acid and water solution. It provides a voltage of 12.6V when it is fully charged.
• Silver Calcium Battery:
  It is very similar to the previous battery. It differentiates with the materials being used; instead of using lead-antimony plates, lead-calcium-silver plates are placed in the battery.
• Enhanced Flooded Battery:
  Built for higher performance, these batteries are sealed in a liquid electrolyte solution. They can take on twice the cycling endurance, providing about 85k engine cranks.
• Deep Cycle Battery:
  Nicknamed the marine battery, these batteries have the option of being flooded or sealed. These batteries are suitable for recreational and marine vehicles with denser active material.
• Gel Cell Battery (Dry Cell):
  Similar to the flooded battery, these differentiate with the inside material. They also are dry cell batteries with increased cycle life and better resistant traits.
• Absorbent Glass Mat Battery (AGM):
  With cars having more demand for energy, these batteries offer up to 5x faster recharge rates than other batteries. They perform better than most batteries but can cost 40-100$ more than previously listed ones.
• Lithium-Ion Battery:
  Mainly used in hybrid and electric cars, these batteries have the advantage of storing more energy, last up to 20 years, and have recyclable parts.
• Nickel Metal Hydride Battery:
  These batteries, like lithium-ion, are often found in hybrid cars, having a longer life cycle than lithium or lead-acid batteries.

When Does a Car Battery Need to Be Replaced?

It's essential to test and replace your battery when needed, as the last thing you want is a dead battery in a parking lot or even a ferry. There can be telltale signs that could signal for a diagnostic, such as:

• Engine performing slow starts
• Smell of sulfur
• Dim headlights
• Check engine light is on
• Older than five years
• Non-rectangular shape
• Faulty alternator

With Wrench, you can book an appointment, have our technicians come to you, and have your battery replaced if needed, all while you are at the comfort of your home, office, or selection of your choice. Why wait until the worst-case scenario, and have to deal with the stress, when you have us take a look.

What Happens When My Battery Dies?

Some of us have been in the situation of a dead battery when trying to start our car, and let me tell you; it can strain your day. Luckily, most cars have a set of jumper cables, usually somewhere in the trunk. For whatever reason you don't, we strongly advise keeping a set somewhere in your car if an emergency like this ever arises. If your vehicle doesn't seem to start, you most likely will have to try jump-starting your vehicle.

Make sure your car is somewhere safe and away from traffic, as you will need to maneuver around to insert and put away jumper cables. When examining your battery, things to look out for are any cracks or leaks of acid anywhere. If so, leave your car alone and have an expert look at it. Keep in mind, the longer a dead battery is put off, other parts of your vehicle could be damaged if continued use without examination or replacement.

Book an Appointment With Our Mobile Technicians

Understanding the entire specs of a car and how it works can be stressful and time-consuming. Considering batteries can be made of dangerous materials, it's essential to be safe when messing with these parts of a car. If you don't feel comfortable checking your battery, our mobile mechanics are happy to lend a hand. We take the hassle away by getting a free quote below.

All you have to do is fill out the information, including the license plate, make of your car, and general questions regarding your personal information, so we make sure our estimate is as accurate as possible. Once all that is figured out, we will set up a time and place that fits best with your schedule. Our mechanics will then come to you, check your battery, and replace it if necessary, leaving you ready to get back on the road safely.