The Essential Guide: Watering Your Car Battery for Peak Performance

Author: Artem Sucks

In the realm of automotive care, there are certain tasks that go beyond the basics of oil changes and tire rotations. One such task often overlooked by many car owners is the regular maintenance of their vehicle’s battery. While modern vehicles boast advanced technology, some batteries, like the one found in the Mazda CX-5 2017, still require a simple yet crucial practice: watering.

Understanding the Need:
The concept of watering your car battery might sound unusual at first, especially in an era dominated by sealed and maintenance-free battery designs. However, traditional flooded lead-acid batteries, like those found in many vehicles, including the Mazda CX-5 2017, still rely on a basic electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid and water.

Over time, as the battery goes through charge and discharge cycles, water in the electrolyte solution evaporates. This evaporation is accelerated in hot climates or due to overcharging. As water levels decrease, the concentration of sulfuric acid increases, leading to potential damage to the battery’s plates and diminished performance.

The Maintenance Routine:
Contrary to popular belief, watering your car battery isn’t a complex or time-consuming task. In fact, it’s a relatively simple process that can be done with minimal tools and effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your battery stays in peak condition:

1. Safety First: Before beginning any maintenance on your car battery, ensure your safety by wearing appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, to prevent any contact with the battery’s electrolyte solution.
2. Locate the Battery: In the Mazda CX-5 2017 and most other vehicles, the battery is typically located under the hood. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location if you’re unsure.
3. Inspect the Battery: Before adding water, inspect the battery for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leaks. If you notice any issues, it’s best to consult a professional for repairs or replacement.
4. Remove the Cell Caps: Traditional flooded lead-acid batteries feature removable cell caps that allow access to the electrolyte chambers. Carefully remove these caps using a wrench or socket, ensuring not to over-tighten or damage them.
5. Check Water Levels: Using a flashlight, inspect the electrolyte levels in each cell. The water level should be above the plates but below the cell’s top indicator line. If necessary, add distilled water to bring the levels up to the recommended height.
6. Reinstall Cell Caps: Once you’ve added water, securely reinstall the cell caps, ensuring they are tightened properly to prevent any leaks.
7. Clean the Battery Terminals: While you’re performing maintenance, take the opportunity to clean the battery terminals and cable connections using a mixture of baking soda and water. This helps prevent corrosion and ensures a strong electrical connection.
8. Dispose of Waste Properly: Any spilled electrolyte or old water should be disposed of properly according to local regulations. Avoid contact with skin or clothing and rinse any spills with water immediately.

The Importance of Distilled Water:
When adding water to your car battery, it’s crucial to use distilled water rather than tap water. Tap water contains minerals and impurities that can contaminate the electrolyte solution and lead to accelerated battery degradation. Distilled water, on the other hand, is free from impurities, ensuring optimal battery performance and longevity.

Conclusion:
While the idea of watering your car battery may seem like a relic of the past, it remains a vital aspect of maintaining traditional flooded lead-acid batteries, such as those found in the Mazda CX-5 2017. By incorporating this simple yet essential maintenance task into your routine, you can ensure your battery operates at its best, providing reliable performance mile after mile. So, the next time you pop the hood of your vehicle, remember to give your battery the attention it deserves – your car will thank you for it.