Why You Need a Battery Tender | AAA Minneapolis

Why You Need a Battery Tender

Don't let your car battery hibernate or it could cause issues later on
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Car batteries are the silent workhorses, providing the vital spark that gets your engine going. But just like any hardworking friend, they need care, especially when your car takes a break. That's where the battery tender steps in, a guardian against the silent killer of car batteries – discharge.

The Silent Threat of Battery Drain

Imagine your car parked for weeks, a slumbering giant. Unbeknownst to you, a silent war is waging within the battery. This enemy is self-discharge, a natural process where chemical reactions slowly sap the battery's energy. Even with the car off, tiny electronic vampires like clocks and alarms drain a little more juice.

Cold weather further weakens the battery's defenses. The chemical reactions slow down, reducing its ability to deliver the necessary cranking power. The result? A rude awakening – a dead battery and a jump-start ordeal.

A Preventative Measure

Enter the battery tender, a compact device that acts like a watchful friend. It connects to your car's battery, providing a gentle trickle charge – a steady, low current that counters the natural drain. Think of it as a vitamin for your battery, keeping it healthy and energized.

Most tenders are intelligent guardians. They monitor the battery's voltage and adjust the current flow automatically. This prevents overcharging, which can damage the battery just like undercharging. Some tenders even include desulfation, a process that can reverse damage caused by past deep discharges.

The Benefits of a Tender Affair

The advantages of a tender go beyond just preventing dead batteries. Here's why it's a wise investment:

  • Extended Battery Life: By maintaining a healthy charge, tenders reduce stress on the battery, leading to a longer lifespan. You get more miles out of your battery investment.
  • Corrosion Prevention: Regular charging helps keep the battery terminals clean and corrosion-free. This saves you money on replacements and future repairs.
  • Convenience: No more last-minute scrambles for jumper cables or relying on the kindness of strangers. Your car is always ready to go whenever you are.

A tender isn't a replacement for a faulty battery. If your car struggles to start even with a tender connected, it's likely time for a replacement.


Tender Loving Care for All Cars

Battery tenders aren't just for classic cars or seasonal vehicles. They're beneficial for any car that isn't driven daily. Whether it's your weekend cruiser, a work van that sits idle sometimes, or even a motorcycle tucked away for the winter, a tender provides the gentle care your battery needs.

So, ditch the dead battery anxiety and invest in a battery tender. It's a small device with a significant impact, ensuring your car starts reliably and your battery enjoys a long, healthy life.