Posted by Owning a car is necessary, but it can also be overwhelming when you have little to no knowledge about car maintainence and care. A car requires many things to maintain it and keep it running in tip-top shape. Most of these maintenance items are easy to learn with a little time and research.
Don’t get stuck in a situation where you car won’t start. Be proactive and get ahead of any issues before they arise. Whether you need a battery for Kia Sorento or something else, there are things to look for before making a purchase to make the best decision possible. See the advice below to get started.
1. VIN Decoder: Batteries Sizes & Models
As you probably know, the VIN, or vehicle identification number, is a unique number that provides information about your vehicle. But do you know what details this number provides? This number gives an abundance of information, including the location of the car manufacturer, the engine type, make, model, year, and any recalls made. That’s not all! Among other things, it can help you decide what part best fits your vehicle. This is important when choosing a battery to purchase.
When looking for a battery, make sure you have your VIN available to plug it into the site’s VIN lookup to determine the best fit for your car. You can find this number in many locations, such as the door jamb on the driver’s side, under your hood and on your registration.
2. Check Manufacture Date
Avoid buying a battery older than six months old. There is typically a date or a code on the battery, which indicates its manufacture date. Some may have a best-if-used-by date. Always purchase the freshest battery possible for best results.
3. Find the Reserve Capacity
A high reserve capacity is critical when the lights are left on in the car by accident. A battery with a high reserve capacity can run longer without the car’s power. Although a higher-capacity battery may cost more, it may be worth it. They may deliver better output and have a longer lifespan too.
4. Consider Your Weather Conditions
There are batteries designed for different extremes in weather. If you are in an area with extremely cold winters or intensely hot summers, you may need a battery that can withstand those specific conditions.
5. Review the Warranty Options
A product with a longer warranty period might be of greater quality. In this case, the company has confidence in its product and can offer an extended warranty time frame. The warranty is critical in case something goes wrong with your purchase. Remember to keep your warranty information in a safe place in case you need it later.
Making the right choices for your vehicle can save you a lot of time, money and hassle in the future. Whether you need a battery for 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee or something else, take your time to research the options before you invest. This way you are sure to make the right choice for you.