Refurbished Car Batteries: Everything You Wanted to Know

What do you do when your car’s battery stops getting charged? Most people just throw away the dead battery and purchase a new one, which is expensive. Do you know that there are refurbished car batteries that are almost equal in power but cost half of the new units?

The good news is you can refurbish it at home and make it fully functional, saving money in the process.

Refurbished Car Batteries: How to Do It at Home?

All the automotive battery units have a specific lifespan after which they cannot retain the charge.

However, you don’t need to throw them in the garbage can, for it is possible to bring them back to their functional state by following some steps.

Follow this guide to have refurbished car batteries at home:

Check the battery – The first step is to check the battery to see if it’s a 12V unit. These are lead acid-based units that have sulphuric acid as the electrolyte and lead terminals. Then, use a voltmeter to check the voltage. If it reads less than 12V, then it is certain that the battery is dead.

Prepare the distilled water – Boil half a liter of distilled water in a pot. Keep the heat of the water in between 333K and 348K, which is almost 30K below the boiling point.

Mix a quarter of Epsom salt in the water and stir until dissolved. The water mixture (or electrolyte) is ready now.

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• What to Do with a Dead Battery during Driving?
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Fill the battery up with electrolyte – To do this, you first have to drain the unit of the old electrolyte. You can do this by removing the battery’s cap (for a wet or flooded cell) or drilling through the sealed cap (for a dry or sealed cell).

Use a funnel to pour the new electrolyte (a mix of distilled water and Epsom salt) into the cell. Be careful not to leave any air bubble inside the cell while pouring the electrolyte. Seal the opening with the battery cap or plug the hole (if it’s a dry cell).

Charge the cell – It’s the final step of preparing refurbished car batteries. You have to charge it overnight and then cool down completely before using again. The charger will be available at any car servicing shop. You can purchase it too. It is expensive but you can use it for years to come.

The new refurbished car battery will function as a new unit. The procedure of refurbishing a hybrid car’s battery will be a tad different, though. Check the following procedure if you drive a hybrid car.

How To Do Reconditioned Batteries For a Hybrid Car

The process is easy but you have to replace the module before reconditioning the battery. It is likely to cost around $700 to $800 but it’s going to last for another 6 to 7 years. 

Next, you have to remove all the caps and charge the battery for an hour. Replace the electrolyte (a mixture of acid and distilled water if needed) and recharge for a few more hours. That’s it! You now have a fully functional battery!

FAQs

1. Why would someone choose a refurbished car battery over a new one?

Refurbished batteries are typically more affordable than brand-new ones, making them an economical choice for those on a budget. They also contribute to reducing electronic waste by recycling and reusing old batteries.

2. How are refurbished car batteries reconditioned?

The process may involve cleaning battery terminals, refilling electrolyte fluid, and replacing damaged cells or components. Advanced equipment and techniques, like desulfation, may also be used to improve battery performance.

3. Are refurbished car batteries reliable?

The reliability of a refurbished battery depends on the quality of the refurbishing process and the reputation of the seller. Reputable refurbishers will test batteries rigorously and provide warranties, increasing their reliability.

4. How long do refurbished car batteries last?

The lifespan of a refurbished battery can vary depending on factors such as the battery’s initial condition, the quality of the refurbishing process, and how well it’s maintained. On average, they can last several years.

5. Where can I find refurbished car batteries?

You can find refurbished car batteries at automotive shops, battery specialty stores, online marketplaces, and recycling centers. Make sure to choose a trusted source to ensure quality.

6. Are refurbished batteries environmentally friendly?

Yes, refurbishing car batteries is considered more environmentally friendly than disposing of them in landfills. It reduces electronic waste and conserves resources by extending the life of existing batteries.

7. Can I refurbish a car battery myself?

Refurbishing a car battery is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge and equipment. It’s not recommended for the average car owner due to safety and technical reasons. It’s best to leave it to professionals.

8. Do refurbished car batteries come with warranties?

Some refurbished batteries come with warranties, while others may not. It’s essential to check with the seller or refurbisher for warranty details and terms before purchasing.

9. Can I use a refurbished car battery in any vehicle?

Refurbished batteries are typically designed to work with specific vehicle types and sizes. It’s crucial to ensure that the refurbished battery you choose is compatible with your vehicle’s specifications.

Check out these tips to keep your Hybrid battery last a lifetime with a video from CarHub!

Conclusion

In conclusion, refurbished car batteries offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative. When considering refurbished batteries, choose reputable sources and inquire about warranties.

They help reduce electronic waste and conserve resources. Leave the complex refurbishing process to professionals.

Overall this car battery type is a sustainable and budget-friendly option for maintaining a vehicle’s power source, benefiting both finances and the environment.