A battery can lose Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) over time due to several factors, most of which are related to age, usage conditions, and maintenance. Here are the main causes:
1. Sulfation
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What it is: Buildup of lead sulfate crystals on the battery plates.
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Cause: Happens when the battery is left discharged or undercharged for extended periods.
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Effect: Reduces the surface area of active material, lowering CCA.
2. Aging and Plate Wear
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What it is: Natural degradation of battery components over time.
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Cause: Repeated charging and discharging cycles wear out the plates.
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Effect: Less active material is available for chemical reactions, reducing power output and CCA.
3. Corrosion
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What it is: Oxidation of internal parts (like the grid and terminals).
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Cause: Exposure to moisture, heat, or poor maintenance.
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Effect: Hinders current flow, reducing the battery’s ability to deliver high current.
4. Electrolyte Stratification or Loss
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What it is: Uneven concentration of acid in the battery or loss of electrolyte.
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Cause: Infrequent use, poor charging practices, or evaporation in flooded batteries.
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Effect: Impairs chemical reactions, especially in cold weather, reducing CCA.
5. Cold Weather
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What it does: Slows chemical reactions and increases internal resistance.
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Effect: Even a healthy battery may temporarily lose CCA at low temperatures.
6. Overcharging or Undercharging
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Overcharging: Causes plate shedding and water loss (in flooded batteries).
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Undercharging: Encourages sulfation buildup.
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Effect: Both damage internal components, lowering CCA over time.
7. Physical Damage
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Example: Vibration damage or dropped battery.
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Effect: Can dislodge or break internal components, reducing CCA output.
Preventive Tips:
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Keep the battery fully charged.
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Use a battery maintainer during storage.
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Avoid deep discharges.
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Check electrolyte levels (if applicable).
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Clean corrosion from terminals.
Would you like tips on how to test your battery’s CCA or know when to replace it?
Post time: Jul-25-2025
