Old age, cold weather, and mechanical defects will eventually kill your car battery, but there are a few bad habits that can drain it even faster. Lights left on, dirty terminals, and a variety of other issues can cause your car battery to go from fully charged to totally dead overnight. George J. Hust Co., Cincinnati, OH’s leading heavy truck parts supplier, recommends avoiding the common mistakes that can leave you stranded.

5 Mistakes That Can Kill Your Battery

1. Leaving the Lights On

At some point, almost everyone has pulled into the driveway and forgotten to turn off their headlights. Unfortunately, this simple mistake can leave you without power in the morning, so always double-check when you get out of the car.

2. Using Accessories With the Car Off

Your car battery needs to be recharged by the alternator, so listening to the stereo or turning on the dome lights for an extended period can drain it pretty quickly. Managing your power usage will keep your battery going for as long as possible.

3. Not Cleaning Your Battery Terminals

Corroded battery terminals are not just unsightly, but they can also keep your battery from working correctly. Keep your battery terminals clear of corrosion, and clean them off as soon as you see buildup.

4. Ignoring Signs of Trouble

If the electrical system isn’t working properly, don’t wait to check the battery. Your local car and heavy truck parts dealer will usually check the voltage for free.

5. Incorrectly Installing New Components

A minor error in wiring up a new speaker or stereo can be a direct drain on your battery. If you notice problems after installing some new accessories, have your entire system checked by an electrical expert before you go through any more batteries.

George J. Hust Co., has been one of Cincinnati’s leading suppliers of automotive and heavy truck parts. Whether you’re an auto enthusiast or own an entire fleet, you can rely on their team to have what you need at some of the best prices in the industry. Visit their website or call (513) 898-9171 to get in touch, or visit their location to browse their inventory of car and heavy truck parts.