How is a car battery charged?

[SanLane]

Car battery charging method is: 1. Open the front cover of the car and take out the battery charger; 2. Connect the positive terminal of the battery to the positive terminal of the power source, and the negative terminal of the battery to the negative terminal of the power source. Methods to check for insufficient car battery power are: 1. The car horn sound becomes weaker; 2. The car struggles to start, indicating battery discharge; 3. The battery fault light turns on. Precautions for car battery charging are: 1. Battery voltage below 10% of the rated voltage will cause battery discharge; 2. Avoid water entering the battery during charging; 3. Connect directly to the battery for charging, avoid removing the battery to prevent data loss.

[MiaAnn]

I often charge my car battery myself, so I'm quite familiar with the process. When the engine starts while driving, the alternator begins working, generating electricity through belt rotation and outputting DC current to charge the battery. The voltage regulator ensures the charging voltage stays around 14 volts to prevent overcharging and battery damage. If the car isn't driven for extended periods, such as during business trips lasting several weeks, the battery might drain completely. In such cases, an external charger is needed—like the smart charger I commonly use, which automatically detects the charging rate after connecting the positive and negative terminals and stops when fully charged. Additionally, it's important to note that batteries release hydrogen gas during charging, so always operate in a well-ventilated area to avoid hazards. Regular maintenance like this can extend battery life by over three years.

[DelNathan]

Having driven for most of my life, I know that the battery charging relies entirely on the alternator. Once the engine is running, it drives the alternator to generate electricity, continuously replenishing the battery. The voltage is regulated by the voltage regulator, typically around 13 to 14 volts for safe charging. If the car sits idle for too long and the battery runs low, start the engine and let it idle for half an hour to charge it once. Avoid deep discharging the battery, as it can be difficult to recover. I make it a habit to check the electrolyte level monthly, topping it up with distilled water if it's too low. Keep the terminals clean during charging to prevent poor contact from affecting current transmission. These small tips can help everyone avoid getting stranded on the road.

[LeIan]

Simply put, the battery charges through the alternator's operation. After the engine starts, the alternator rotates to generate electricity, and the produced direct current charges the battery, restoring stored energy through internal chemical reactions. The voltage regulator controls the input to prevent damage from excessive voltage. Driving for a while will fully charge the battery. Sometimes, using a charger for manual charging is quicker.