We all know that winter can be tough on car batteries, those cold, dark mornings where the engine just won’t turn over. But what many drivers don’t realise is that summer can be just as hard on your battery.
High temperatures can quietly take a toll, causing internal damage that could lead to unexpected failures later down the line. And if your battery is already a little tired, a hot day and a long drive could be all it takes to leave you stranded.
So, before you load up the car for that family getaway, road trip, or weekend adventure – make sure your battery’s ready for the journey.
Why summer can be tough on your car battery
While winter affects how your battery performs in the moment, heat is what causes most of the long-term damage. It speeds up internal chemical reactions, which may lead to a faster rate of discharge, shortening your battery’s lifespan.
Hot weather can cause the fluid inside your battery to evaporate, leaving internal parts exposed and vulnerable to damage. It also speeds up corrosion around the terminals and can lead to overcharging, which shortens the battery’s lifespan. On top of that, heat encourages sulphate build-up inside the battery, making it harder to hold a charge.
Signs to look out for
- Your car takes longer to start
- You’ve noticed flickering lights or electrical glitches
- You’ve had to jump start recently
- The battery warning light is on
If any of this sound familiar, or if you just want peace of mind before hitting the road, book a free battery health check!
Free Battery Health Check
Our Free Battery Health Check is quick, simple and could save you from a costly breakdown. Here’s what you get:
- A full assessment of key health indicators
- Expert advice from our trained technicians
- A no-obligation quote if your battery needs replacing
We’ll let you know if everything looks good or if it might be time for a change and in many cases, we can fit a new battery the very same day.
You can book your check online and visit one of our stores or autocentres. And if you’re short on time? We’ll come to with our mobile fitting service, so your battery can be sorted right from your driveway.
Top tips for battery care
There are a few easy habits which can go a long way in helping your battery last longer through the summer.
- Park in the shade or a garage to protect your car from extreme heat.
- Use a car cover if you’re parking in direct sun for longer periods.
- Avoid short, stop-start journeys, as it may not allow your battery enough time to recharge.
- Be sure to top up your electrolyte, if you have a lead-acid battery that is not a sealed type, using a high-quality deionised water such as the Halfords Battery Top-Up Water 1L.
Get summer ready with Halfords
Summer should be all about adventures, day trips, and time well spent – not waiting for breakdown recovery. With over 600 locations across the UK, expert technicians, and our quality guarantee on all parts fitted, you can count on Halfords to keep you moving.
Introducing the Halfords Motoring Club
Don’t miss out! Join the Halfords Motoring Club today to access a range of amazing benefits and discounts that are designed to keep you moving, keep you safe and keep you saving.
It’s free to join and you’ll receive money off your MOT, a free car health check and a welcome voucher that can be spent on any Halfords product or service.
Or choose our Premium membership for a monthly fee of £5.49 (£65.88 total) or £54 annually to unlock exclusive member pricing on all motoring products and services online and across our stores, garages and Halfords Mobile Experts, as well as a variety of other benefits that will help you to keep moving for less.
With so much to enjoy, this is too good an opportunity to miss!
Join the Halfords Motoring Club today at www.halfords.com/motoring-club.
