What is battery fluid and how to know if your car needs it
Content
Battery fluid, a mixture of sulfuric acid and distilled water (called an electrolyte), produces the electricity that keeps a modern battery working properly and keeps your car running smoothly.
A car is made up of many mechanical and electrical systems that work together to make the car work properly. However, most of these systems require maintenance in order to function properly.
The battery, for example, is the main element of vehicles. In fact, if your car doesn't have it, it won't start. That's why we should always check the car's battery and add fluid if necessary.
What is battery fluid?
The battery fluid you'll find at various parts stores and under various brands and manufacturers is nothing more than distilled water. This makes sense when you consider that batteries work with an electrolyte solution inside, and that the minerals and chemicals that make up it never disappear.
In this way, the battery fluid fills the battery, which over the years can suffer from water loss due to a bad manufacturer's seal or due to very adverse weather conditions, such as too high or too low temperatures.
How do you know if you need battery fluid?
1.- Indicator eye
Some batteries have a clear battery indicator on top that turns green if the water level is normal and fully charged, and turns off if the battery needs fluid or is low.
If it is yellow, it usually means that the battery fluid level is low or the battery is defective. (Battery manufacturers recommend replacing maintenance-free batteries with low fluid levels.)
2.- Slow start
Slow start or no start, dimmed headlights, blinking alternator or battery light, other electrical problems, or even lighting check engine light may indicate battery problems.
3.- Open the filler plugs.
Maintenance-free batteries can also be checked by opening the filler caps at the top of the battery and looking inside. The liquid should be about 1/2-3/4 above the inner plates or about 1/2-inch above the top of the battery. If the fluid level is below this value, it must be topped up.
Both maintenance-free and maintenance-free batteries contain sulfuric acid, which can cause severe burns. Always wear gloves and goggles when working with a car battery. In case of contact with battery fluid, rinse with plenty of water and seek medical attention immediately.
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