Batteries can be recharged because the chemical reactions they use are reversible; they are recharged by running a charging current through the battery, but in the opposite direction of the discharge current. Rechargeable batteries can be charged hundreds of times before wearing out; and even after wearing out some can be recycled.
Always keep your battery terminal ends clean and free of corrosion on the inside as well as out. You can use boiling water to remove the majority of the corrosion and then follow up with a wire brush. On some model cars equipped with anti- theft system it is important to have your security codes before you disconnect your battery or you may not be able to start your car. Another way is to attach a battery charger to the battery cables before disconnecting the battery to allow power to the vehicles computer during battery maintenance. This maintenance can make a world of difference in how long your car battery will last. Most batteries that come with your car when new will last about 4 years and up to 7 years if maintained properly. Batteries are susceptible to extreme weather conditions such excessive heat (over 90 degrees) or extreme cold (below 0 degrees).
The most common cause of a car not starting is a dead battery. We have all been guilty of leaving our lights on even if its just for a few minutes while we run in the store. But when the time comes that the battery runs down to where you get the dreaded "Click, Click, Click" We had better be prepared with a set of jumper cables in the trunk. Once you have jump started the car slide over to your local auto repair shop and have the battery tested to make sure you do not need to have it replaced, better to find out now than when you are leaving for work the next morning.
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