Do Car Batteries Come Charged? What You Need To Know

Do Car Batteries Come Charged? Absolutely, understanding the charge status of a new car battery is crucial for optimal vehicle performance. CARS.EDU.VN provides valuable insights into this topic, ensuring your car runs smoothly. Let’s explore automotive batteries, battery installation, and battery maintenance to help you keep your vehicle in top condition.

1. Understanding Car Battery Basics

Car batteries are essential components of any vehicle, providing the initial electrical power needed to start the engine and run various electrical systems. Understanding the basics of car batteries can help you maintain your vehicle more effectively.

1.1. What is a Car Battery?

A car battery is a rechargeable battery that provides the electrical current to start a vehicle’s engine. It also powers accessories such as lights, radio, and other electronic devices when the engine is not running. These batteries are typically lead-acid batteries, known for their ability to provide high current bursts.

1.2. Types of Car Batteries

There are several types of car batteries available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

Lead-Acid Batteries: The most common type, these are inexpensive and reliable. They come in two main forms:
- Flooded Lead-Acid: Require maintenance to check and refill electrolyte levels.
- Sealed Lead-Acid: Maintenance-free, with the electrolyte sealed inside.
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Batteries: These are a type of sealed lead-acid battery where the electrolyte is absorbed in a glass mat, making them spill-proof and more resistant to vibration.
EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) Batteries: An enhanced version of standard flooded batteries, offering improved performance and durability.
Lithium-Ion Batteries: Lighter and more powerful than lead-acid batteries, these are often used in hybrid and electric vehicles.

1.3. Key Components of a Car Battery

Understanding the key components of a car battery can help you better understand how it works and why maintenance is important.

Component	Description
Positive Plate	Made of lead dioxide, this plate generates electrons during discharge.
Negative Plate	Made of sponge lead, this plate receives electrons during discharge.
Electrolyte	A sulfuric acid solution that facilitates the flow of electrons between the plates.
Separators	Insulating materials that prevent the plates from touching and short-circuiting.
Casing	The outer shell that protects the internal components from damage.
Terminals	The positive and negative connections used to connect the battery to the vehicle.

Mechanic inspects battery with handheld multimeter (voltmeter)

1.4. How Car Batteries Work

Car batteries work through a chemical reaction. When you start your car, the battery provides a surge of electrical current to the starter motor. This current is generated by the chemical reaction between the lead plates and the sulfuric acid electrolyte. During discharge, the positive plate generates electrons, which flow through the circuit to the negative plate, powering the starter motor and other electrical components.

1.5. Common Car Battery Problems

Several issues can affect the performance and lifespan of your car battery. Recognizing these problems early can save you time and money.

Sulfation: Occurs when a battery is not fully charged regularly, leading to the formation of lead sulfate crystals on the plates, reducing their ability to hold a charge.
Corrosion: Accumulation of corrosive deposits on the terminals, hindering the flow of electricity.
Overcharging: Can damage the battery by causing the electrolyte to evaporate and the plates to corrode.
Undercharging: Prevents the battery from reaching full capacity, leading to sulfation and reduced performance.
Extreme Temperatures: Both high and low temperatures can negatively impact battery performance and lifespan.

2. The Initial Charge of a New Car Battery

When you purchase a new car battery, understanding its initial charge status is essential for ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

2.1. Do New Car Batteries Come Fully Charged?

Typically, new car batteries are not fully charged when you buy them. They usually have a charge level of around 70% to 90%. This is enough to start your vehicle, but it’s not at its maximum potential. According to Battery Council International (BCI), a new battery should have at least 12.4 volts to be considered usable.

2.2. Why Aren’t New Batteries Fully Charged?

There are several reasons why new car batteries are not fully charged:

Storage Time: Batteries can lose a small amount of charge over time during storage and transportation.
Safety Regulations: Storing and transporting fully charged batteries can pose safety risks.
Cost Efficiency: Fully charging every battery before shipping would add to production costs.

2.3. Benefits of Fully Charging a New Battery

Fully charging a new car battery before its first use offers several advantages:

Increased Lifespan: Ensures the battery operates at its maximum potential from the start.
Improved Performance: Provides more reliable starting power and supports the vehicle’s electrical systems more effectively.
Reduced Sulfation: Helps prevent the formation of lead sulfate crystals, which can reduce battery capacity.
Optimal Cold Weather Performance: Ensures the battery can deliver the necessary power in cold temperatures.

2.4. How to Check the Initial Charge Level

You can check the initial charge level of a new car battery using a multimeter:

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Prepare the Multimeter: Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage (20V range).
Connect the Leads: Connect the red lead to the positive (+) terminal and the black lead to the negative (-) terminal.
Read the Voltage: Read the voltage displayed on the multimeter.

Here’s a table that shows the charge level based on voltage readings:

Voltage (V)	Charge Level (%)	Condition
12.6+	100	Fully Charged
12.4	75	Well Charged
12.2	50	Partially Charged
12.0	25	Low Charge
11.9 or Less	0	Discharged/Dead

2.5. Steps to Fully Charge a New Car Battery

If your new car battery is not fully charged, you can use a battery charger to bring it to 100%. Here’s how:

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.
Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the battery from the vehicle. Remove the negative (-) terminal first, then the positive (+) terminal.
Clean the Terminals: Use a battery terminal cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to clean any corrosion.
Connect the Charger: Connect the red clamp of the charger to the positive (+) terminal and the black clamp to the negative (-) terminal.
Set the Charger: Set the charger to the appropriate voltage (usually 12V) and charging rate (2-10 amps).
Charge the Battery: Allow the battery to charge until it reaches full capacity. This may take several hours, depending on the charger and battery.
Disconnect the Charger: Once fully charged, disconnect the charger, removing the black clamp first, then the red clamp.
Reinstall the Battery: Reinstall the battery in the vehicle, connecting the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal.

2.6. Best Practices for Storing a New Car Battery

Proper storage of a new car battery can help maintain its charge and condition until you’re ready to use it.

Cool, Dry Place: Store the battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Elevated Surface: Place the battery on a wooden pallet or shelf to prevent it from sitting directly on a concrete floor, which can discharge it over time.
Check Charge Periodically: Check the battery’s charge level every few months and recharge it if it drops below 12.4 volts.
Use a Trickle Charger: If storing the battery for an extended period, use a trickle charger to maintain its charge level.

3. Car Battery Maintenance Tips

Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your car battery and ensuring reliable performance. CARS.EDU.VN is dedicated to providing you with the most effective maintenance strategies.

3.1. Regular Inspection

Regularly inspecting your car battery can help you identify potential problems early on.

Check for Corrosion: Look for white or blueish deposits on the terminals. Clean them with a battery terminal cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water.
Inspect the Cables: Ensure the cables are securely connected and free from damage.
Check the Battery Case: Look for cracks or bulges in the battery case, which could indicate internal damage.

3.2. Cleaning Battery Terminals

Cleaning your car battery terminals is a simple yet effective way to prevent corrosion and ensure a good electrical connection.

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first, then the positive (+) terminal.
Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of water.
Apply the Solution: Use a toothbrush or terminal cleaning brush to apply the solution to the terminals and cable clamps.
Scrub Away Corrosion: Scrub the terminals and clamps until the corrosion is removed.
Rinse with Water: Rinse the terminals and clamps with clean water.
Dry Thoroughly: Dry the terminals and clamps with a clean cloth.
Apply Dielectric Grease: Apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to the terminals to prevent future corrosion.
Reinstall the Battery: Reinstall the battery, connecting the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal.

3.3. Testing Battery Voltage

Regularly testing your battery voltage can help you monitor its health and identify potential issues before they lead to a dead battery.

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Prepare the Multimeter: Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage (20V range).
Connect the Leads: Connect the red lead to the positive (+) terminal and the black lead to the negative (-) terminal.
Read the Voltage: Read the voltage displayed on the multimeter.

Refer to the voltage chart in Section 2.4 to interpret the readings.

3.4. Proper Charging Habits

Proper charging habits can significantly extend the life of your car battery.

Avoid Short Trips: Frequent short trips can prevent the battery from fully charging. Take longer drives periodically to ensure the battery reaches full capacity.
Turn Off Accessories: Turn off headlights, radio, and other accessories when the engine is off to avoid draining the battery.
Use a Battery Tender: If you don’t drive your car frequently, use a battery tender to maintain the charge level.

3.5. Protecting from Extreme Temperatures

Extreme temperatures can negatively impact battery performance and lifespan.

In Hot Weather: Park in the shade or use a car cover to protect the battery from excessive heat.
In Cold Weather: Use a battery blanket to insulate the battery and keep it warm.

3.6. Regular Professional Check-ups

Consider having your car battery professionally checked at least once a year. A technician can perform a load test to assess the battery’s overall health and identify any potential issues.

4. Charging Your Car Battery

Knowing how to properly charge your car battery is essential for maintaining its health and ensuring reliable performance.

4.1. When to Charge Your Car Battery

You should consider charging your car battery in the following situations:

Slow Engine Crank: If your engine cranks slowly when starting, it could indicate a low battery charge.
Dim Headlights: If your headlights appear dim, especially at idle, it could be a sign of a weak battery.
Warning Light: If the battery warning light on your dashboard is illuminated, it indicates a charging system problem.
After Jump Starting: After jump starting your car, it’s a good idea to fully charge the battery to ensure it reaches its maximum capacity.
Before Long-Term Storage: Before storing your car for an extended period, fully charge the battery to prevent sulfation.

4.2. Methods for Charging Your Car Battery

There are several methods for charging your car battery:

Using a Battery Charger: This is the most common and effective method.
Driving Your Car: Driving your car allows the alternator to recharge the battery, but it may not fully charge it, especially on short trips.
Using a Trickle Charger: A trickle charger provides a slow, steady charge, ideal for maintaining a battery’s charge level during storage.
Jump Starting: While jump starting can revive a dead battery, it doesn’t fully charge it.

4.3. Step-by-Step Guide to Charging with a Battery Charger

Here’s a step-by-step guide to charging your car battery with a battery charger:

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.
Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the battery from the vehicle. Remove the negative (-) terminal first, then the positive (+) terminal.
Clean the Terminals: Use a battery terminal cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to clean any corrosion.
Connect the Charger: Connect the red clamp of the charger to the positive (+) terminal and the black clamp to the negative (-) terminal.
Set the Charger: Set the charger to the appropriate voltage (usually 12V) and charging rate (2-10 amps).
Charge the Battery: Allow the battery to charge until it reaches full capacity. This may take several hours, depending on the charger and battery.
Disconnect the Charger: Once fully charged, disconnect the charger, removing the black clamp first, then the red clamp.
Reinstall the Battery: Reinstall the battery in the vehicle, connecting the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal.

4.4. Choosing the Right Battery Charger

Choosing the right battery charger is crucial for effectively charging your car battery without causing damage.

Voltage: Ensure the charger is compatible with your battery’s voltage (usually 12V).
Charging Rate: Choose a charger with a charging rate suitable for your battery type and size. A lower charging rate (2-4 amps) is ideal for slow charging, while a higher rate (6-10 amps) can be used for faster charging.
Automatic Shut-Off: Look for a charger with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent overcharging.
Float Mode: Some chargers have a float mode that maintains the battery’s charge level without overcharging, ideal for long-term maintenance.
Compatibility: Make sure the charger is compatible with your battery type (lead-acid, AGM, EFB, lithium-ion).

4.5. Safety Precautions When Charging

When charging your car battery, it’s important to take the following safety precautions:

Wear Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and skin from battery acid.
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Charging batteries can produce hydrogen gas, which is explosive. Work in a well-ventilated area to prevent gas buildup.
Avoid Sparks and Flames: Keep sparks and flames away from the battery while charging, as they can ignite the hydrogen gas.
Follow Charger Instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your battery charger.
Disconnect Before Starting: Never start the car while the charger is connected to the battery.

5. Replacing Your Car Battery

Knowing when and how to replace your car battery is crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s reliability.

5.1. Signs That Your Car Battery Needs Replacement

Several signs indicate that your car battery may need to be replaced:

Slow Engine Crank: If your engine cranks slowly when starting, it could indicate a weak battery.
Frequent Jump Starts: If you need to jump start your car frequently, it’s a sign that the battery is not holding a charge.
Dim Headlights: If your headlights appear dim, especially at idle, it could be a sign of a weak battery.
Battery Warning Light: If the battery warning light on your dashboard is illuminated, it indicates a charging system problem.
Old Age: Most car batteries last between 3 to 5 years. If your battery is older than 3 years, it may be time to replace it.
Swollen Battery Case: A swollen battery case indicates that the battery is damaged and needs to be replaced.

5.2. Choosing the Right Replacement Battery

Choosing the right replacement battery is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with your vehicle.

Size and Group Number: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a battery fit guide to determine the correct battery size and group number.
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): CCA measures the battery’s ability to start the engine in cold temperatures. Choose a battery with a CCA rating that meets or exceeds your vehicle’s requirements.
Reserve Capacity (RC): RC indicates how long the battery can power the vehicle’s electrical systems if the alternator fails. Choose a battery with a RC rating that meets or exceeds your vehicle’s requirements.
Battery Type: Consider the different battery types (lead-acid, AGM, EFB, lithium-ion) and choose one that meets your needs and budget.
Warranty: Look for a battery with a good warranty to protect against premature failure.

5.3. Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Car Battery

Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing your car battery:

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a wrench, socket set, battery terminal cleaner, and a battery carrier.
Park Your Car: Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
Locate the Battery: Locate the battery under the hood or in the trunk.
Disconnect the Battery: Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first, then the positive (+) terminal.
Remove the Battery Hold-Down: Remove the battery hold-down clamp or strap.
Lift Out the Old Battery: Use a battery carrier to lift the old battery out of the tray.
Clean the Battery Tray: Clean the battery tray with a brush and a mixture of baking soda and water.
Install the New Battery: Place the new battery in the tray and secure it with the hold-down clamp or strap.
Connect the Battery: Connect the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal.
Apply Dielectric Grease: Apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to the terminals to prevent corrosion.
Start Your Car: Start your car to ensure the new battery is working properly.

5.4. Proper Disposal of Old Batteries

Proper disposal of old car batteries is essential for protecting the environment.

Recycle: Car batteries contain hazardous materials and should be recycled.
Return to Retailer: Many retailers that sell car batteries will accept old batteries for recycling.
Recycling Centers: Contact your local recycling center for information on how to recycle car batteries.

6. Jump Starting Your Car

Knowing how to safely jump start your car is an essential skill for any driver.

6.1. What You Need to Jump Start a Car

To jump start a car, you’ll need:

Jumper Cables: A set of jumper cables with color-coded clamps.
A Second Car: A second car with a healthy battery.
Safety Gear: Safety glasses and gloves.

6.2. Step-by-Step Guide to Jump Starting

Here’s a step-by-step guide to jump starting a car:

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Position the Cars: Park the cars close to each other, but not touching. Turn off both engines.
Connect the Cables:
- Connect the red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
- Connect the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
- Connect the black clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.
- Connect the other black clamp to a metal, unpainted surface on the dead car, away from the battery.
Start the Good Car: Start the engine of the good car and let it run for a few minutes.
Start the Dead Car: Try to start the engine of the dead car.
Disconnect the Cables: If the dead car starts, disconnect the cables in the reverse order:
- Remove the black clamp from the metal surface on the dead car.
- Remove the black clamp from the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.
- Remove the red clamp from the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
- Remove the red clamp from the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.
Let the Car Run: Let the car run for at least 20 minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery.

6.3. Safety Precautions When Jump Starting

When jump starting a car, it’s important to take the following safety precautions:

Wear Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and skin.
Avoid Sparks and Flames: Keep sparks and flames away from the battery area.
Connect Cables Correctly: Connect the cables in the correct order to avoid short circuits.
Don’t Touch Moving Parts: Keep your hands and clothing away from moving parts while the engines are running.
Check for Damage: If the battery is cracked or leaking, do not attempt to jump start it.

7. Extending Car Battery Life

Extending the life of your car battery can save you money and ensure reliable performance.

7.1. Best Practices for Long Battery Life

Here are some best practices for extending the life of your car battery:

Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect and clean the battery terminals to prevent corrosion.
Proper Charging Habits: Avoid short trips and turn off accessories when the engine is off.
Protect from Extreme Temperatures: Park in the shade in hot weather and use a battery blanket in cold weather.
Use a Battery Tender: Use a battery tender to maintain the charge level during long-term storage.
Regular Professional Check-ups: Have your car battery professionally checked at least once a year.

7.2. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid that can shorten the life of your car battery:

Leaving Lights On: Leaving headlights or interior lights on can drain the battery.
Frequent Short Trips: Frequent short trips can prevent the battery from fully charging.
Ignoring Warning Signs: Ignoring warning signs such as slow engine crank or dim headlights can lead to a dead battery.
Improper Installation: Improper installation can damage the battery and shorten its lifespan.
Overcharging: Overcharging can damage the battery by causing the electrolyte to evaporate.

8. Advanced Car Battery Technologies

Staying informed about advanced car battery technologies can help you make better decisions about your vehicle’s power source.

8.1. AGM Batteries

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are a type of sealed lead-acid battery that offers several advantages over traditional flooded batteries.

Spill-Proof: The electrolyte is absorbed in a glass mat, making them spill-proof.
Vibration Resistant: More resistant to vibration than flooded batteries.
Longer Lifespan: Generally have a longer lifespan than flooded batteries.
Better Performance: Provide better performance in extreme temperatures.

8.2. EFB Batteries

EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) batteries are an enhanced version of standard flooded batteries, offering improved performance and durability.

Improved Cycling Performance: Can withstand more charge and discharge cycles than standard flooded batteries.
Better Charge Acceptance: Accept charge more quickly than standard flooded batteries.
Enhanced Durability: More durable than standard flooded batteries.

8.3. Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are lighter and more powerful than lead-acid batteries and are commonly used in hybrid and electric vehicles.

Lighter Weight: Significantly lighter than lead-acid batteries.
Higher Energy Density: Store more energy per unit of weight than lead-acid batteries.
Longer Lifespan: Generally have a longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries.
Faster Charging: Can be charged more quickly than lead-acid batteries.

8.4. Solid-State Batteries

Solid-state batteries are an emerging technology that promises even greater performance and safety than lithium-ion batteries.

Higher Energy Density: Can store even more energy per unit of weight than lithium-ion batteries.
Improved Safety: Use a solid electrolyte, which is less flammable than the liquid electrolyte in lithium-ion batteries.
Faster Charging: Can be charged even more quickly than lithium-ion batteries.
Longer Lifespan: Expected to have a longer lifespan than lithium-ion batteries.

9. The Role of the Alternator

Understanding the role of the alternator is crucial for maintaining your car’s electrical system.

9.1. How the Alternator Works

The alternator is a component of your car’s charging system that recharges the battery while the engine is running. It converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy, which is used to power the car’s electrical systems and recharge the battery.

9.2. Symptoms of a Failing Alternator

Several symptoms can indicate that your alternator is failing:

Dim Headlights: If your headlights appear dim, especially at idle, it could be a sign of a weak alternator.
Battery Warning Light: If the battery warning light on your dashboard is illuminated, it indicates a charging system problem.
Dead Battery: If your battery keeps dying, even after being charged, it could be a sign that the alternator is not charging it properly.
Strange Noises: Squealing or grinding noises from the engine compartment can indicate a failing alternator.
Electrical Problems: Problems with the car’s electrical systems, such as power windows or radio, can also be a sign of a failing alternator.

9.3. Testing the Alternator

You can test the alternator using a multimeter:

Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Start the Car: Start the car and let it run.
Prepare the Multimeter: Set the multimeter to measure DC voltage (20V range).
Connect the Leads: Connect the red lead to the positive (+) terminal and the black lead to the negative (-) terminal of the battery.
Read the Voltage: Read the voltage displayed on the multimeter.

A healthy alternator should produce a voltage between 13.5 and 14.5 volts. If the voltage is outside this range, it could indicate a problem with the alternator.

9.4. Maintaining the Alternator

Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your alternator.

Check the Belt: Regularly inspect the alternator belt for cracks or wear.
Keep It Clean: Keep the alternator clean and free from dirt and debris.
Professional Check-ups: Have the alternator professionally checked at least once a year.

10. Car Battery FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about car batteries.

10.1. How Long Does a Car Battery Last?

A car battery typically lasts between 3 to 5 years, depending on factors such as climate, driving habits, and maintenance.

10.2. Can a Dead Battery Be Recharged?

Yes, a dead battery can often be recharged using a battery charger. However, if the battery is old or damaged, it may not hold a charge.

10.3. How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Car Battery?

The cost to replace a car battery can range from $100 to $400, depending on the battery type and brand.

10.4. Can I Replace a Car Battery Myself?

Yes, you can replace a car battery yourself if you have the necessary tools and knowledge. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can have it done by a professional.

10.5. How Do I Know What Size Battery I Need?

Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a battery fit guide to determine the correct battery size and group number.

10.6. What Is a Battery Load Test?

A battery load test is a test that measures the battery’s ability to deliver power under load. It can help determine the battery’s overall health and identify potential problems.

10.7. What Is Battery Sulfation?

Battery sulfation is the formation of lead sulfate crystals on the battery plates, which reduces their ability to hold a charge.

10.8. How Can I Prevent Battery Corrosion?

You can prevent battery corrosion by regularly cleaning the terminals and applying a thin layer of dielectric grease.

10.9. What Is the Difference Between CCA and RC?

CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) measures the battery’s ability to start the engine in cold temperatures, while RC (Reserve Capacity) indicates how long the battery can power the vehicle’s electrical systems if the alternator fails.

10.10. Where Can I Get My Car Battery Tested?

You can get your car battery tested at most auto parts stores or repair shops.

Understanding car batteries is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s reliability and performance. From knowing whether new batteries come charged to implementing proper maintenance techniques, you can extend your battery’s life and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

Do car batteries come charged? While typically partially charged, ensuring your new battery is fully charged before use can enhance its performance and longevity. For more in-depth information, maintenance tips, and expert advice, visit CARS.EDU.VN. Our website offers a wealth of resources to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly.

Don’t wait until you’re stranded with a dead battery. Take proactive steps today to maintain your car battery and ensure its reliability. Visit CARS.EDU.VN for more information and services, or contact us at 456 Auto Drive, Anytown, CA 90210, United States, or Whatsapp: +1 555-123-4567. Let cars.edu.vn be your trusted partner in automotive care.