When it comes to the list of luxurious rides, the Chrysler 200 has been ranked among the most affordable luxurious ride you can ever own. The model comes with amazing looks, such as a high cabin and incredible safety features. A big trunk is also a bonus. With all this aesthetic aspect, the Chrysler will require a battery to perform.
Where is the battery in a Chrysler 200? The car’s battery is usually located in a compartment under the hood, and that’s between the left headlight area and the left front wheel splash guard. Knowing the location of your battery is essential as it helps you monitor the physical state.
By monitoring the battery’s physical appearance regularly, you can quickly point out and rectify a problem before it turns out major. The act can save you from the misery of having a dead battery in the Chrysler 200. We both know what a dead battery can mean to your luxurious ride.
Apart from bailing on you in the middle of those deserted roads, a dead battery can see you spend some huge amount of cash on unplanned battery replacements. Today, you’re likely to spend between $200 and $225 on a new battery for your Chrysler 200, and around $75 on labor. The figure is high to ignore, especially when it put into something that could be prevented.
How Can I Take Care of the Chrysler 200’s Battery?
1. Avoid the Short Rides as Much as Possible
Like most other cars, Chrysler’s battery is tasked with the work of starting the engine. The same cell is also used to power up the electronics attached to the vehicle, as well as, the headlights. The stereo system, especially, can be much consuming, and that’s based on the size. It’s for this reason that you’re always advised to avoid using the system for long when the car isn’t on the move.
By using the system or leaving the headlights on when the car isn’t running, you end up draining the battery. Cars are designed to have the battery charging while they are on the move. As a result, the more distance you cover, the more power the battery receives.
Therefore, you should avoid taking the short rides if possible, as this will mean your battery won’t charge fully. You can choose to walk instead as this is also good for your health.
2. Fasten the Cell in its Position
If you happen to drive your car off the road frequently, the high chances are that the battery is going to go lose over time. As a result, you must ensure that the battery is tightly held it its position to curb the vibrations. Today, you will find cells in the market labeled as vibration-resistant. Having such batteries doesn’t mean that they aren’t prone to damages that may arise from the vibrations.
Apart from cracking and stuff, a loosely-held battery can end up short-circuiting and eventually die. Instead of waiting for all this to happen, you can invest in a battery tray and straps or upgrade your battery compartment based on your situation. Also, when tightening the battery, don’t make the mistake of over-tightening the clump nuts. By doing so, you may end up damaging the battery instead of helping.
3. Clean it More Often
Like your Chrysler 200, the battery also needs to stay clean and dry at all times. The battery corrosion, for instance, if not controlled, can shorten the life of your expensive battery. When dealing with the corrosion, always observe safety precautions as the substances can mean harm when in direct contact with your skin.
Also, taking away the dirt on top of the battery can help reduce the cases of discharge and thus prolonging life. Besides, the regular cleaning gives you a perfect opportunity to observe the cracks that may appear on the battery and hence, a repair, if needed.
4. Reduce Heat Exposure
Most people firmly believe that cold weathers are the leading cause of battery damages. Well, it’s not always the case. Most of those batteries that fail during the winter season do so because of the damages they experienced during the summer holidays. You must understand that excessive heat evaporates the battery components, including the sealed models.
So, how can you deal with this misery? The best option is to invest in a battery that is designed for the hot seasons, especially if you live in the southern region. These types of cells are usually well insulated to prevent the battery from overheating. However, they come with a bit high price as compared to conventional batteries. Also, you should remember to always park the car in shade or garage regardless of the weather.
5. Test the Voltage Frequently
Testing the state of your battery may sound unnecessary, but it’s crucial. For instance, cells that are subjected to deep discharge moments are likely to last shorter as compared to those that are always full. It’s for this reason that you’re always advised to test a voltage of your battery often. So, how often should one check the voltage? From an expert’s perspective, the testing should be done at least once a month.
For the lead-acid batteries, the voltmeter should read 12.7 volts or more. Therefore, if you notice that the reading is below 12.5, you should ensure that the battery is charged soon. Using a voltmeter is easy. It doesn’t ask for any special skills, and hence, it’s a task you can perform without having to drive to your local garage.
6. Taking Care of the Entire Car
A well-maintained car translates to a well-functioning battery. Therefore, it’s advisable not to undermine the regular servicing of your vehicle. How often do you take your vehicle for service?
Servicing in this scenario doesn’t mean renewing the engine oil alone. It means taking a look at every component of the car. The alternator, headlights, and entertainment system, especially, shouldn’t be neglected as they affect the battery directly if they develop a problem.
Conclusion
Finding your Chrysler 200’s battery location shouldn’t be complicated as many drivers make it sound. By reading this article, you will understand everything from the battery’s location to tips on how to prolong its life. Read through the piece to have a deeper understanding, as this can end up saving you some cash.
Sources:
1. Battery Location; Jump-starting – Chrysler 200 Convertible User Manual – ManualsLib
