EdupradaYour car’s battery is the central element in starting it. In fact, it provides the energy power necessary to start your engine and then use all the electrical accessories.
The car battery voltage must be maintained at a certain voltage in order for it to function optimally.
How does a car battery work?
The battery in your vehicle performs two distinct functions. On the one hand, it allows starting the motor with the starter. On the other hand, it supplies electricity to the electrical and electronic elements of the vehicle.
Concretely, the battery has two electrodes, one positive and one negative, both bathed in sulfuric acid, also called electrolyte. When the positive and negative terminal connect, their difference drives the electrons from the – terminal to the + terminal.
This therefore makes it possible to produce electricity and transport it within the vehicle. Thanks to the alternator and kinetic energy, the battery recharges when you are driving your vehicle.
What is the amperage of a car battery?
The amperage of a car battery designates its electrical power. It is expressed in amperes. Currently, most passenger vehicles have a battery with a voltage of 12 volts. The higher the amperage, the greater the battery power will be.
We generally speak of amperage per hour to analyze the capacity of the battery to supply the vehicle with electric current while being recharged by the alternator.
As you will have understood, the amperage of the battery will therefore correspond to the needs of the motor . 70 and 75 Ah. For example, a city car generally has a battery with an amperage hour (Ah) between power in terms of
So, when you replace your vehicle battery, it is essential to choose the right amperage so as not to damage your engine and avoid burning out the battery.
It is noted on the battery your vehicle has but you can also find it in the maintenance booklet. The latter contains all the recommendations of the manufacturer of your car.
What is the voltage of a car battery?
When we talk about the voltage of a car battery, we are talking about voltage. As a general rule, a battery with a normal voltage is around 12.7 volts and it should not go below 11.7 volts. When stopped, the battery voltage should be between 12.3 and 13.5 volts.
If your battery voltage drops below 10 volts, this means that your battery is sulfated. You will notice this because a white coating will be present on the positive terminal of it. It is the lead sulfate that crystallizes.
This happens when you don’t recharge your battery regularly. In order to measure your car’s battery, you will need to have a multimeter and connect the red wire to the positive terminal and the black on the negative terminal. If it is discharged, you can try 3 different options:
- Connect your battery to that of another vehicle: it’s possible thanks to the clamps. The other vehicle must run the engine to allow the battery to send electricity to your discharged battery.
- Use a battery booster: it must be charged beforehand and will provide the necessary power to your battery to start .
- Use a battery charger: this solution allows you to fully recharge the battery. However, patience is required until the battery is fully charged.
If none of these options work, this is a sign that your vehicle’s battery needs to be changed.
How much does a car battery cost?
A car battery is not one of the most expensive parts of your vehicle. On average, it takes between 100€ and 300€ depending on the vehicle models and the power of the batteries. Indeed, the more powerful they are, the higher their price will be.
If you wish to buy your battery yourself, you will need to take into account your manufacturer’s recommendations regarding voltage and ;amperage of it.
If you fit a battery that is not powerful enough or too powerful in your vehicle, this can have significant repercussions. Furthermore, if you go through a mechanic to make the change, you will need to count between 35€ and 50€ of labor
The battery voltage of your car is an essential indicator because it allows you to monitor its proper functioning and the power it can offer. Preserve your battery by parking your vehicle in a dry place and protected from temperature variations. You must also use your vehicle regularly otherwise your battery risks discharging due to inactivity.