Posted on Aug 11th, 2023.

As the summer sun blazes overhead, it brings along the sweltering heat that can affect various aspects of our lives—including our vehicles. 

While we often think of winter as the prime battery-draining season, the truth is that extreme heat can also take a toll on your car battery. 

In this blog post, we'll explore the question, "Can heat kill a car battery?" and provide you with essential protection tips to keep your battery running smoothly throughout the scorching summer months.

Understanding the Impact of Heat on Car Batteries

As the sun's rays intensify during the summer months, they cast not only a sweltering atmosphere but also a significant impact on our vehicles. In this section, we'll take a closer look at how heat affects car batteries, diving into the mechanics behind the interaction between temperature and battery life. By gaining a deeper understanding of these dynamics, you'll be better equipped to navigate the challenges posed by hot weather and extend the longevity of your car's power source.

Heat and Battery Life

Extreme heat can indeed have a detrimental effect on car batteries. High temperatures accelerate the chemical reactions within the battery, causing the fluid inside to evaporate more quickly. This evaporation leads to the deterioration of the battery's internal components, shortening its lifespan.

Reduced Capacity

In hotter temperatures, a car battery's capacity diminishes. This means that even if your battery is fully charged, it might not provide the same level of power it would in cooler conditions. As a result, starting your vehicle can become more challenging, especially if the battery is already weakened.

Can Heat Kill a Car Battery?

Yes, heat can indeed contribute to the premature death of a car battery. The combination of high temperatures and the battery's chemical processes can lead to what's known as "battery sulfation." Sulfation occurs when sulfate crystals form on the battery's lead plates, inhibiting the battery's ability to hold a charge effectively. Over time, this buildup can render the battery unable to provide the necessary power to start your vehicle.

Tips to Protect Your Car Battery from Overheating

As the summer sun beats down and temperatures soar, the well-being of your car battery becomes even more critical. High heat can take a toll on this essential component, potentially leading to reduced performance and a shorter lifespan. 

Fortunately, there are proactive steps you can take to shield your car battery from the scorching effects of overheating. Let's dive into the actionable tips that can make a significant difference in preserving your car battery's well-being.

1. Park in the Shade

Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a shaded area to shield it from direct sunlight. If you don't have access to shade, consider using a car sunshade to block some of the sun's rays.

2. Regular Maintenance

Schedule routine maintenance checks for your vehicle, including battery inspections. Mechanics can assess your battery's health and detect any early signs of deterioration.

3. Battery Insulation

Consider using a battery insulation kit to minimize the effects of heat on your battery. These kits are designed to protect the battery from extreme temperatures.

4. Limit Short Trips

Short trips don't allow your battery enough time to fully recharge, which can contribute to its deterioration. Whenever possible, take longer drives to give your battery a chance to recharge.

5. Keep It Clean

Ensure that your battery terminals are clean and free from corrosion. Dirty terminals can impede the flow of electricity, making it harder for your battery to function efficiently.

6. Consider Battery Replacement

If your battery is showing signs of wear or has been affected by the heat, consider a battery replacement service.

What to Do if Your Battery Dies

Discovering that your car battery has died can be an unexpected setback, particularly when you're on the go. While it can be a frustrating situation, there are steps you can take to address the issue and get back on the road smoothly. 

Here's what you can do if your battery dies:

1. Check for Warning Signs

Before your battery dies completely, it might show signs of weakness, such as dimming headlights, difficulty starting the engine, or a slow cranking sound. Pay attention to these indications to anticipate potential battery failure.

2. Try Jumpstarting

If you have jumper cables and a willing friend or passerby, you can attempt to jumpstart your car. Follow proper jumpstart procedures, and once your car is running, keep it running for a while to recharge the battery.

3. Contact Roadside Assistance

If you're not comfortable jumpstarting your car or if it doesn't work, consider calling a professional roadside assistance service. RoadAngel offers dead battery jumpstart services, providing quick assistance to get your car running again.

4. Consider Mobile Car Mechanic

In addition to jumpstarting, a mobile car mechanic can diagnose the underlying issue causing the battery failure. If needed, RoadAngel also offers mobile battery replacement, ensuring your vehicle is equipped with a new battery without needing to visit a shop.

5. Stay Safe

If you're stranded on the side of the road, prioritize your safety. Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible, turn on hazard lights, and stay inside the car if you're in a high-traffic area.

6. Preventive Measures

To avoid future battery issues, consider regular battery maintenance and periodic checks. If you notice any ongoing battery problems, consult a professional to determine the best course of action.

Related: What To Do When Your Car Breaks Down

Conclusion

As the temperatures rise, it's essential to pay attention to the health of your car battery. Extreme heat can indeed affect the lifespan and performance of your battery, potentially leaving you stranded on a scorching day. By implementing these protection tips and staying vigilant about your battery's condition, you can enjoy worry-free driving throughout the hot summer months.

For immediate assistance with a dead battery or any other roadside issue, don't hesitate to reach out to RoadAngel. Our Dead Battery Jumpstart service is designed to get you back on track swiftly. Additionally, if you're looking for a reliable mobile battery replacement, RoadAngel aso has you covered. 

Contact us at (972) 954-9711 or [email protected]. We're here to keep you moving safely, no matter the temperature outside.