Does Thunder Affect Car Batteries?
2 Answers
Thunder does not affect car batteries. Equipotential Bonding: This involves connecting metal objects with wires or other conductive materials. When lightning-induced high voltage occurs, the potential of the car's metal parts becomes approximately equal (though not entirely due to the resistance and reactance of the wires). Without a potential difference, no current flows. Car Body as an Equipotential Surface: The metal shell of a car forms an equipotential surface, meaning the potential of people inside the car and the car itself is the same. Even if lightning directly strikes the car, the current will travel along the car's shell and through the wet tires to the ground, causing no harm to the vehicle.
I used to be quite the car enthusiast myself, and personal experience has taught me that car batteries are generally not directly affected by lightning strikes. The metal body of the car acts as a natural lightning rod, with the current flowing around the vehicle, keeping it well protected. However, if lightning strikes nearby ground or trees, it might cause voltage fluctuations through the car's electronic systems, indirectly affecting the battery—like a short circuit in the charger leading to faster battery drain or reduced lifespan. My advice is to avoid parking under trees or in open areas during thunderstorms; it's safer to stay inside the car and not run around outside. If you really need to check the battery, wait until the rain stops to see if the voltage stabilizes, so you don't worry unnecessarily.
