Something we don’t talk a great deal about on Life in a House is vehicles – but maybe we should. Without them, it makes getting around really difficult (especially if you live in the suburbs or the country), and most families spend roughly 20% of their income on vehicles.
So with that type of investment, you want to make sure that your investment lasts as long as possible, and that you are doing everything you can to extend the life of that investment. Let’s look at the Ford Ranger today and discuss the best battery for that particular vehicle based on driving needs.
About 20 years ago, my husband had a purple Ford Ranger. He loved that truck more than me sometimes I think! We called it “Barney” because it was this lovely shade of purple that reminded us of that beloved Tyrannosaurus. We purchased it second-hand, but it had been well-loved and cared for.
Your Ford Ranger can power through off-road trails and pull heavy loads down crowded highways, but few things can stop it in its tracks like a dead battery. A car battery isn’t just essential for your headlights and radio, it powers EVERYTHING – from your electric ignition to electronic-assisted steering. Ever had your battery die and your power steering go out? Not a fun situation to find yourself in!
Find out when you should consider replacing your battery and what to look for in the best Ford Ranger batteries.
Shop Based on Warranty
One of the most important factors to look for when comparing batteries is the warranty. A longer warranty gives you more peace of mind. When warranties can range from one year to five years long, you need to do your research to find a battery that’s a worthwhile investment.
Many batteries outlast their warranty. However, a longer warranty is typically a sign of higher quality, so you can count on your battery to last you for years to come. While warranties typically end at five years, a properly maintained battery can last up to 10 years or more.
Most car batteries are lead-acid batteries. Also known as flooded cell batteries, acid is used to submerge lead and other metal plates in multiple cells within the case. Once connected by the terminals, electrons are exciting and the chemical energy is converted to electrical energy to power your vehicle.
Inspect Your Current Battery
Because of the integral nature of both lead and acid, this means that an old battery is full of dangerous materials. It’s important to routinely inspect your battery to be sure it is free from leaks, corrosion, and cracks. Not only does spilled battery acid burn and damage other components, but a leak will also reduce the effectiveness of your battery or cause it to stop working altogether.
While there may be some physical signs of damage on an old battery, the best way to test it is with an electronic battery tester. These are available at any auto parts store, and many stores will test your battery for you. A battery test lets you know if your battery is operating inefficiently and needs to be changed.
Choose a Reliable Retailer
A dead Ford Ranger battery can stop you in your tracks. Keep your Ranger on the road with a reliable battery from a reputable retailer. Lead-acid batteries must be stored and shipped carefully to avoid exterior damage, spilled acid or interior cell damage.
Quality retailers will also recycle your old battery for you, so you don’t need to worry about disposing of hazardous materials. From how to replace cabin air filters to thorough battery tests and replacements, a quality retailer offers you additional information and tools to keep your truck driving safely.
Pick Up a New Battery Today
Check out your local auto parts store or shop online to find a replacement car battery for your Ford Ranger. Don’t wait until your battery is completely dead, but have your old battery inspected and promptly replaced if it shows any signs of wear or corrosion. A premium battery offers you peace of mind as you navigate your daily commute in your favorite Ranger.
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This vehicle is so nice. I just replaced my battery and all these things are so important no matter what vehicle you drive. Thank you for sharing this
What throws me for a loop (and this will probably tell my age lol) is how some of the newer cars are putting their batteries in the trunk of the car — and my husband’s Cadillac has the battery under the back seat in the car!