There are several things that you need to know about car battery maintenance. Here's how you can clean and inspect your car battery. Keep the battery's terminals clean and avoid using baking soda. This can lead to corrosion. Clean the battery and check the date code. Also, avoid excessive heat. You should also drive your car at least three days per week in order to maintain its condition. While it might take some time, the difference between a healthy and a dead battery will amaze you.
Clean battery terminals
To clean your battery terminals, first disconnect cables from the positive/negative posts. Separately loosen the negative and positive clamps. Some battery cables attach to top or side posts using bolts. Excess corrosion or corroded terminals may require metal pliers or a special tool. You should thoroughly clean the terminals before connecting the cables again. Apply a protective grease or petroleum jelly to the terminals after cleaning.
You can remove corrosion from terminals by using a mixture of baking soda and warm water. The solution should be very dilute and should remove heavy corrosion from the battery. You can also use a special battery cleaner that can be applied using a brush. This type of cleaner is often aerosolized, and can also work on battery cables. When using this method, it is recommended that you wear protective gloves.
Avoid extreme heat
Avoid heat in order to extend the life span of your car's batteries. You can do this by keeping your battery fully charged, storing it in a cool area when not in use, and parking in the shade. It's a good idea for hot weather to wash and test the battery. A battery that is designed for warmer environments has a higher electrolyte–to-lead ratio. It's better suited for high temperatures.
The battery can also be damaged by excessive heat. The resultant corrosion reduces the battery’s ability to hold charge and can lead malfunctioning charging system components. Your car's battery will eventually die if it is exposed to extreme heat. Hot batteries also speed up the corrosion process. This can drastically reduce the battery’s ability to last and also cause it to be less efficient. It is best for the battery to be checked regularly for signs of corrosion and to be cleaned with a copper brush, scouring pad, or scouring cloth.
Clean battery case
When you want your car's battery to last a long time, the first thing to do is clean the battery cover. An unclean battery case can lead you to problems such as premature drain or cracks and even leaks. It can also hide other damage from the battery, such as bulges or freezing. Your battery's lifespan will be extended if it is kept clean. Here are some tips for keeping your battery case in pristine condition:
Using a wire brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the case, you can get rid of the traces of corrosion. It is important not to remove any lead or other metals from the terminals. This could cause corrosion. Use clean water to rinse the case, and then dry it using a rag. A cleaning solution can be used if the case has any residue. You can then apply petroleum jelly or another protective coating to clean the case.
Check the date code
Check the date code on your car's battery for instructions on how to maintain it. Most batteries have a warranty that outlines when they should be replaced. The date code is located at the top, and is composed of a number and a letter. The number indicates when the battery is due to expire. If the code reads "A" or, "B", you must replace the battery within its warranty period.
Depending on the manufacturer of the battery, there may be different date codes. Some batteries display the manufacturing date, others an "in service" date. The battery date can sometimes be confusing and hard to understand. The battery's date code "2014" means that it was made in December of 2014. The warranty expiration date is also calculated by manufacturers. Your battery can still be used if it has not been used for two years. But it might not last as long as it did when it was fresh.
FAQ
What is the length of an automotive training course?
An automotive course lasts 3 years.
The first year is spent on theory, learning all about cars. The second year is dedicated towards practical training. This includes learning how to drive, fix engine problems, and doing other maintenance jobs around your car. The final year includes a placement at an auto shop. This gives you real-world experience fixing real problems.
Is it worth being a mechanic.
This question is dependent on your life goals. If you are looking to make money, then yes. But if meaning and purpose is what you seek, then no.
It's not worth learning mechanics if you don’t have the skills. You'll waste your time. It will not make you rich. It's unlikely that you will be famous. It is unlikely that you will be made famous.
It would take you years to learn how to do everything correctly. This would mean that you would have to pay someone else for your car's repair. It's the reason most people don't bother. They find something more worthwhile.
Let's sum it up: If you want to make a lot of money, then do so. But if you want to live a meaningful life, stay away from the mechanic's industry.
Is it hard to be an apprentice mechanic?
It's not easy, however, it is very rewarding and offers many opportunities for growth.
You must have patience and perseverance. You will also need to be able fix cars, trucks and motorcycles.
Customers and family members will put pressure on your shoulders to help you succeed. But, you shouldn’t be pressured to make any decisions you aren’t happy with.
If you like fixing cars, this could be a great career option. You can make a decent living and build your business.
You might choose to take a different route. This is where you might be interested in becoming a technician.
This means that you can use your technical knowledge to help other workers. You might be able to assist technicians in troubleshooting problems or teach them new techniques.
Another option is to become a service advisor. As a service advisor, you will provide assistance and advice to customers as they bring their car to a garage.
Your decision depends on what you want to do. There are plenty of options available, and you can choose which suits you best.
What jobs are available for car mechanics?
Three main areas of employment are available for car mechanics:
-
Automotive repair shops
-
Dealerships
-
Independent garages
Automotive repair shops
Most people think of this as the first step to becoming a mechanic. It's the easiest way for most people to get started. Either work for someone else's shop or you can start your own.
You will need to join a union if you want to work in a shop. Once accepted into the union you will be trained by the union.
Once the training is completed, you can start working.
If you plan to open your own garage you will need to register with government. After registering, you'll be required to meet certain standards.
When you've registered, you'll be given a license to operate your garage.
Your license will permit you to sell spares parts and perform minor repairs. It will not allow you to repair major engine problems.
Apart from selling spare parts, customers will also expect you to provide guidance and advice.
Dealership jobs
Most dealerships employ mechanics who can specialize in a particular area of the car. They may be trained to replace or repair tires, or they may specialize in brakes.
Some dealerships have the option to hire general mechanics who can take care of all aspects.
Some positions require that applicants complete training before they can be allowed to work. Employers can then choose the best candidates for their job.
Some dealerships will even hire graduates right out of university. These graduates already know the basics of mechanical engineering and therefore have no problem learning about cars.
Independent garages
Independent garages don’t have to be associated with any particular dealer. Instead, they tend to focus on providing high-quality service.
Independent garages can pay higher wages because they aren't associated with any company. This means that these jobs are usually more lucrative than those at dealerships.
Independent garages can be just as good places to work, but this does not mean they are better. Many business owners prefer to be in control of their businesses than to delegate it to employees.
So you may find yourself working long hours without having any say over what happens during the day.
Additionally, you should expect to earn lower wages if employed by a dealership.
You can switch jobs easily. It is possible to switch between different types of jobs if your current employer would prefer you to work at a dealer.
If you prefer to work in an independent garage, you might consider applying directly to its owner.
The bad news is that finding a new job isn't always easy. You can earn more depending on many other factors.
Consider, for example, what type of vehicle you are repairing and whether additional labor charges will apply.
Statistics
- 52% of Mechanics in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area. (indeed.com)
- There were 749,900 jobs available for automotive service technicians and mechanics in 2016, which is expected to grow by six percent through 2026. (jobhero.com)
- Apprentice mechanics earn significantly less hourly than mechanics who have completed training, with a median wage of approximately $14.50 an hour, according to PayScale. (jobhero.com)
External Links
How To
How to guard yourself against auto mechanic scams
Consumers are often victims of auto mechanic scamming. The average American spends $1,500 a year on vehicle repairs. This means that there is plenty of people willing to take advantage. You can avoid becoming a victim if you are able to identify the signs. These tips will help you identify scammers before they steal your money.
-
Never pay upfront. It is likely that someone will ask you to pay them upfront. Always ask for payment once work has been completed. You can call the Better Business Bureau (BBB) at 1-888-322-8138 if you are unsure if something is legal. They'll give you advice on how to proceed.
-
Ask for references. Ask for references to help you make sure that you're dealing only with reputable service providers. Online reviews are also a great way to verify the service provider's reputation. It is important to ensure that every business you deal has a positive reputation.
-
Background checks are essential. Do background checks before you hire anyone. Check the BBB website to see if there are any complaints against the business. Also, make sure that the license number of the vehicle belongs to the owner.
-
Do not be afraid to leave. Sometimes, even if the business appears legit, they will try to con you into paying too high. If you feel cheated, don't hesitate leaving. There are plenty of other businesses available to you.
-
Don't be fooled by "free" services. Many companies offer free inspections or estimates. Many of these companies charge exorbitant fees in the future. Be sure to ask about additional fees before signing anything.
-
Avoid being pressured. You shouldn't be pressured by companies that offer great deals. This is because they think they can make you pay less than you deserve. You should not be forced to buy anything if you find yourself in this situation.
-
Look for quality products. High-quality parts are important when you're looking for a repair place. For instance, if you require new brake pads you should not go to a place that uses low-quality pads. You should instead go to a shop that is specialized in brakes.
-
Get multiple quotes. It's important to compare prices between different shops. If you do this, you will have a greater chance of getting a fair deal.
-
Keep track. It's important to keep track of all the details surrounding your repair. This includes things such as receipts, invoices, and warranties. Notify your recipient of phone numbers or addresses.
-
Stay informed