How to Optimize the Life of Your 2016 Honda CRV Battery

As a smart driver, you want to get the most out of your Honda CRV’s car battery. You want to get good value for your dollar, but there’s another practical reason: You don’t want to be stranded. Caring for your battery now can save you money and hassles later down the road. In this quick guide, you’ll learn some tips and essentials for making your battery last.

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How to Charge Your Car Battery

Testing your battery regularly is a smart move. It helps you keep tabs on its health and gives you a rough idea of its remaining lifetime. Many aftermarket auto parts dealers offer free battery testing. So if you don’t have a multimeter handy, you can at least get your battery checked.

Your local auto parts dealer may also provide free battery charging. In a pinch, it’s helpful in case you accidentally leave your lights on or your battery drains for other reasons. You can also use a portable charger – most 12-volt chargers start at around $60. Charging your battery is easy with a few simple instructions:

Start with your battery charger unplugged.
Inspect your battery’s terminals. Make sure they’re clean and free of debris.
Attach the positive (red) charger cable to the positive battery terminal.
Connect the charger’s negative (black) cable to the negative terminal.
Plug in your battery charger.
Leave the charger cables attached to your battery.

Check your battery charger’s instructions. They should tell you how long to leave it connected for a full recharge.

How Long Do Honda CRV Batteries Typically Last?

Your Honda CRV battery should last between two and five years. Its exact lifespan depends on a few factors:

What’s using your battery
Your driving habits
Diligence with regular maintenance

Like many motorists, you probably use electronic devices in your car. Juice for those devices comes from your battery – that’s a no-brainer. But let’s think beyond your stereo and climate control. You may use a GPS device, smartphone, and other tech while you’re driving. Experts recommend turning off all electronics while your engine isn’t running. Also, limit how long you let your vehicle idle.

You may be surprised to learn that short jaunts can deplete battery life quicker. That’s because short rides don’t provide enough time for the battery to completely charge. If you can’t avoid multiple short trips, consider investing in a battery charger.

Regular maintenance can help you ward off battery problems before they start. You should regularly check your battery cables to make sure they’re tightly fastened. Frequently cleaning your terminals can also help you prevent corrosion. Lastly, don’t forget to turn your lights off when exiting the vehicle.

How to Shop for Your Battery

If your battery is near the end of its life, it’s wise to replace it as soon as possible. Most auto parts retailers make it easy to find the correct battery. You can use their VIN lookup tools if offered. Nearly all retailers let you search by make, model and year – for example, if you need a 2016 Honda CRV battery. Choosing a reputable dealer gives you access to a wide range of battery options.