Your Subaru’s battery is one of its most critical components, ensuring reliable starts and powering your vehicle’s electrical systems. Whether you’re tackling Lake Forest Park’s rainy weather or gearing up for a mountain trip, a healthy battery is essential to your Subaru’s performance.
Key Takeaway: Subaru batteries last between 3 to 5 years, but proper care and maintenance can help extend their lifespan and keep your vehicle performing at its best.
In this blog, we’ll share five essential battery tips to maximize your Subaru’s performance and reliability.
1. Inspect Your Battery Regularly
Routine battery checks are key to avoiding sudden breakdowns. Look for these warning signs of a failing battery:
- Corrosion buildup on the terminals.
- Cracks or leaks in the battery casing.
- Dim headlights or sluggish engine starts.
At Suburb Service, our experts can perform a quick battery inspection to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
2. Keep Your Battery Clean
Dirt and corrosion can prevent your battery from delivering optimal power. Here’s how to keep it clean:
- Use a wire brush to gently remove corrosion from the terminals.
- Wipe down the battery casing with a damp cloth.
- Apply a battery terminal protector to prevent future corrosion.
A clean battery ensures consistent power flow and reduces the risk of electrical issues.
3. Test Your Battery in Extreme Weather
Lake Forest Park winters can be tough on car batteries. Cold weather reduces your battery’s capacity, making it harder for your Subaru to start. In contrast, hot weather can accelerate fluid evaporation, shortening your battery’s lifespan.
- Before winter or summer, have your battery tested by a professional.
- If your battery is nearing the 3-year mark, consider replacing it to avoid seasonal surprises.
Suburb Service offers battery testing services to help you stay ahead of potential issues.
4. Avoid Draining Your Battery
Leaving your headlights, interior lights, or accessories on while your engine is off can drain your battery. To prevent this:
- Always double-check that your lights are turned off before leaving your Subaru.
- Unplug chargers or devices that don’t turn off automatically.
- Avoid running your radio or accessories for extended periods without starting the engine.
These simple habits can go a long way in preserving your battery’s charge.
5. Drive Your Subaru Regularly
If your Subaru sits unused for long periods, the battery may lose its charge. Driving your vehicle regularly helps keep the battery charged and prevents sulfation, which occurs when lead sulfate crystals build up and reduce battery capacity.
- Take your Subaru for at least one 30-minute drive each week.
- If you’re storing your vehicle, use a trickle charger to maintain the battery’s charge.
Regular driving not only benefits your battery but also keeps your Subaru running smoothly.
Suburb Service: All we do is Subaru!
Your Subaru’s battery plays a vital role in its overall performance, and with proper care, you can avoid unexpected issues and extend its lifespan. From regular inspections to clean terminals and mindful driving habits, these tips will help your Subaru perform its best year-round.
If you’re due for a battery check or need a replacement, Suburb Service is here to help. With over 25 years of experience specializing in Subaru vehicles, our team will ensure your battery and the rest of your car are ready to handle whatever Lake Forest Park throws your way. Schedule your battery service today by visiting suburbservice.net or calling us at (206) 203-2263.