A car battery is under constant demand, even when the engine is off. Modern vehicles contain many electronic components that continue to draw a small amount of power (known as parasitic drain). By managing your car’s security systems and key fob location, you can significantly reduce this drain and extend the battery’s lifespan.
Essential Tips for Longer Battery Life
Tip 1: Always Lock Your Car, Even in the Garage
This might sound counter-intuitive, but it’s a crucial step for battery preservation.
Did you know that leaving your car unlocked, even when parked in the garage, can drain your battery? That’s right! When your car is unlocked, its internal computer and keyless entry system are constantly performing a “wake-up” search, waiting to communicate with the key fob. This process puts unnecessary, low-level strain on the battery 24/7.
Make it a habit to lock your car every time you park, even indoors, to put its electronic systems into a true sleep mode and preserve your battery life.
Tip 2: Keep Your Car Keys Away from the Vehicle
Your smart key fob is constantly emitting signals, and your car is constantly listening for them.
Keep your car keys at least 5 meters (15–20 feet) away from your car at all times. Why? When the keys are too close, they are within the car’s detection range. This proximity can trigger the car’s passive entry system to remain “semi-awake” or to repeatedly ping the key, leading to a battery drain known as relay leakage or signal interference.
By maintaining a safe distance between your keys and your car, you prevent unnecessary power drain and extend the life of your battery.
At Lessons2Drive Driving School, we care not only about teaching safe driving skills but also about helping you maintain your vehicle in top condition. Follow these simple yet effective tips to ensure your car battery stays charged and reliable for your every journey.
For more insightful tips and professional driving lessons,
Our goal is to prepare you to be a safe and legal driver in the shortest time possible.
Stay safe and legal on the road! Learn more with Lessons2Drive—book your lesson today!