When your child drives their power wheels car around your backyard, it gives them a delight like no other toy can offer. Although these electric ride-on cars have revolutionized playtime, they would be nothing without their batteries. This makes it critical for you to know how to choose the right battery for your kid’s vehicle, as well as how to maintain it so the vehicle continues to operate correctly. Learn all about these units with our ultimate guide to power wheels batteries and ensure your little one’s ride is as satisfying as possible.

What Should You Look for When Buying a Battery?

If you have recently purchased a power wheels car for your child, then it is very likely that the manufacturer included the battery with the vehicle. However, if you need to purchase a new battery, you must ensure that it is compatible with your ride-on car.

Different ride-on cars require specific battery voltages, which means checking the manufacturer’s recommendations for your particular vehicle is essential. It’s also important to verify whether the battery has built-in safety features; many modern batteries come with overcharge, short-circuit, and thermal protection to prevent overheating. Additionally, you must ensure the battery is the correct size to fit into your child’s vehicle.

Product quality and brand reputation also matter when it comes to choosing a power wheels battery. Opt for well-known brands with reputations for providing reliable and durable batteries.

Cheap, generic batteries may save you money upfront but can lead to the need for frequent replacements, ultimately costing you more in the long run. Reading product reviews and seeking battery recommendations from other parents can help you make an informed decision.

How Long Does It Take To Charge a Battery?

When you purchase a new power car for kids, one of the first things you must do is charge the battery. It’s important to note that the charging time can vary based on the battery. For example, if you have a 6V battery, you should charge it for 10 hours the first time. However, 12V and 24V models typically require up to 18 hours for their initial charges.

Subsequent charges usually require less time. Your 6V battery should only need about 6 hours, while the 12V will need 12 hours. Generally, the 24V battery will still require 18 hours. Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s directions regarding this process so that you don’t damage the battery’s performance. If you charge the battery for too long, it may decrease the battery’s ability to hold a charge, making your child’s time behind the wheel shorter.

What Is the Lifespan of a Power Wheels Battery?

No guide to power wheels batteries would be complete without discussing the lifespan of these units. Essentially, the longevity of each battery can vary based on its usage and the level of maintenance you provide. If you keep the battery in excellent condition, you might be able to get up to three years of use.

As previously mentioned, overcharging can hurt the battery, although undercharging can shorten its life as well. Promptly removing the battery from the charger after a sufficient charge time is always a good practice.

During the winter months, your child may not be able to use their power wheels. However, you should still take the time to charge the battery about once a month. Doing so will allow you to maintain the battery’s performance.

Performing proper maintenance can also help you extend the life of the battery. Clean it regularly to remove dirt and debris, as contaminants can affect the battery’s functionality. If you spot any cracks or leaks, it is best to purchase a new battery to prevent any potential hazards.

Where Should You Store the Battery?

After your little one finishes driving their power wheels, remove the battery and store it in a cool location where it will not experience exposure to harsh climate conditions. If the unit gets too warm, it may overheat, while colder climates can hurt the battery internally.

It is also wise to avoid storing the battery in a location prone to moisture; this minimizes the chances of rust or other damage developing on the battery. If you notice any signs of moisture or condensation on the battery, dry it thoroughly before storage. Additionally, it is crucial that you keep the battery away from flammable materials.

Can a Battery With a Higher Voltage Make Your Child’s Vehicle Faster?

As your child gets older, you may decide that they are ready to drive their vehicle at a faster speed. One way to give their vehicle that extra boost is to buy a battery with a higher voltage.

For example, upgrading from a 12V to a 24V battery can result in a noticeable boost in speed. But before you make the change, take the time to confirm that the ride-on car’s motor and electrical components are compatible with the higher voltage. Otherwise, you may risk damaging the motor, wiring, and other parts of the vehicle.

What Is the Proper Way To Dispose of an Old Battery?

When the time comes to replace your power wheels battery, you must properly dispose of the old one to ensure you protect the environment as much as possible. Never discard the battery in your regular household trash. Otherwise, the contents within the battery can lead to pollution or put others at risk.

Check with your local recycling center for advice on how to dispose of the old battery. Many centers have specific drop-off points for batteries so they can handle them properly.

Some retailers and manufacturers also offer battery recycling programs, allowing you to return the old battery for safe disposal. By taking the time to dispose of the battery responsibly, you can rest assured knowing that you contributed to a cleaner and safer environment for future generations.

After reviewing this guide, you can confidently make decisions regarding the battery in your child’s ride-on car. Making informed choices and performing necessary maintenance will allow you to get more use out of each battery. If you’re ready to purchase a new power wheels vehicle for your child, or you simply need a replacement battery for their vehicle, contact Elegant Electronix today. Our reliable products ensure your child can continue to enjoy the thrill of driving a miniature vehicle.