What are the reasons for a maintenance-free battery not charging?
2 Answers
The reasons why a maintenance-free battery cannot be charged are that the battery has internal broken plates or short-circuit damage. The maintenance methods for the battery are: 1. Charge the battery in time when the ammeter shows insufficient power; 2. Adjust the density of the electrolyte according to different regions and seasons based on standards; 3. Add distilled water or special replenishing fluid when the electrolyte is insufficient; 4. The total duration of starting the car each time should not exceed 5 seconds; 5. Start the car periodically when the battery is not used for a long time; 6. Regularly check whether the small holes on the battery cover are ventilated; 7. Check whether the positive and negative terminals of the battery are oxidized; 8. Check whether any part of the circuit is aged or short-circuited.
Recently, my car battery couldn't hold a charge either. After inspection, it might be due to an internal short circuit or aging. Maintenance-free batteries are designed to be sealed, making them prone to sulfation on the plates from prolonged disuse or deep discharge, forming crystalline barriers that prevent charging. Issues with the charger, like too low output voltage or loose connections, can also render charging ineffective. When temperatures are too cold, chemical reactions slow down, making it normal for the battery not to charge. For prevention, I drive on the highway for half an hour weekly to let the alternator charge it naturally, avoiding sulfation. Don't leave the car unused for too long. Once it stops charging, replacing it with a new battery is more cost-effective and safer than trying to fix it. Safety first—don't force the use of an old battery, as it might leave you stranded with a no-start situation.
