It’s a common experience among parents of kids with ride-on toys: their vehicle slows to a crawl just when the adventure starts. However, instead of accepting it and leaving your child disappointed, you can extend those exciting driveway adventures and keep the fun going for longer with a few simple habits.

Here are several helpful tips for preventing battery drain in electric ride-on cars. By following this advice, you will maximize your little one’s playtime and better ensure their vehicle is ready to roll.

Kick Off With a Full Charge

Imagine the excitement as your child sees their new ride-on car for the first time. To make their first ride a success, you must fully charge the battery before its initial use.

Depending on the voltage, your electric ride-on car’s battery may need up to 18 hours to charge. This crucial first step conditions the battery, helping it reach its maximum capacity and ensuring a longer overall lifespan for countless future journeys.

Don’t Completely Discharge It

Another tip for preventing battery drain in electric ride-on cars is to avoid a complete discharge. Letting the battery run completely flat before recharging can permanently reduce its ability to hold a charge.

Instead, encourage your child to bring their car in for a "pit stop" when it starts to slow down. Regularly charging the battery after each use prevents it from draining completely and keeps it in peak condition.

Store Your Ride-On Car’s Battery Properly

Where you store the ride-on car’s battery makes a significant difference to its life. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can negatively impact battery performance and longevity.

Find a cool, dry place for storage, like a garage or shed. If you plan to store the vehicle for an extended period, such as over the winter, fully charge the battery first and then disconnect it to prevent slow, continuous power loss. In addition, make sure you charge it at least once a month during the winter to keep it healthy.

Adhere to Weight Limits

Every electric ride-on car has a manufacturer-specified weight limit for a reason. Overloading the vehicle with extra passengers or cargo forces the motor to work harder, which in turn draws significantly more power from the battery.

This can lead to rapid battery drain and strain the motor and other components. Respecting the weight capacity ensures the car operates efficiently and the battery lasts as long as intended.

A well-maintained battery means more smiles and uninterrupted adventures for your child. By following these easy tips, you can extend the life of your battery and the fun it provides.

If you have not purchased a ride-on car for your little one, contact Elegant Electronix today. Our selection includes power wheels with TVs that let your kids enjoy their favorite programs and learn while they are in their vehicles.