Are Aussies Parking Their Way To A Flat Battery?

With rising fuel prices sending more Australians to park their cars at home and look for alternative ways to get around, battery experts are flagging an unexpected consequence – fewer kilometres on the clock is one of the leading causes of flat batteries.

While driving less is a reasonable response to cost-of-living pressure, leaving a car sitting idle creates a risk most people simply don't anticipate. A flat battery is the number one cause of early battery failure, and the less you drive, the greater that risk becomes.

We might be experiencing the greatest park-in since the COVID lockdowns but a few simple habits can make all the difference.

Five Ways to Protect Your Battery When You're Driving Less

1. Always lock your car

Locking the vehicle powers down its electrical system and significantly reduces battery drain while stationary. It's the single easiest step you can take.

2. Keep your key fob at least five metres away

Wireless keys continuously try to communicate with your vehicle when within range, keeping computer modules active and quietly draining the battery – at more than 20 times the rate of a locked car. Store keys well away from the vehicle, especially overnight.

3. Take a longer drive at least once a week

Short trips under 5km don't give the alternator enough time to replace the charge used to start the engine. Over time, this leads to undercharging, reduced battery capacity and a shorter battery life. Aim for at least one drive of 20 minutes or more each week.

4. Use a smart charger or trickle charger

If your car is sitting unused for extended periods, a smart charger is the most effective way to maintain battery health. It monitors charge levels and tops up as needed without the risk of overcharging.

5. Check for corrosion

Corrosion creates resistance that forces the battery to work harder, shortening its life. Any white powdery buildup around the terminals can be cleaned with an old toothbrush, baking soda and water – followed by a light smear of petroleum jelly to stop it returning.

Modern batteries rarely give advance warning before they fail. That makes a free battery test, which takes around 30 seconds, one of the most practical things you can do. Given what Australians are already spending at the bowser, a flat battery is the last thing anyone needs.

Your local Battery World store offers free battery testing and expert advice. Find your nearest store.