Joseph Weaver If you own a 2017 Subaru Legacy, you might be wondering how long it takes to charge the car battery. Perhaps you are planning a long road trip and want to make sure that your battery is fully charged before you hit the road. Or maybe you recently purchased a new battery and want to know how long it will take to charge it.
In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about charging your 2017 Subaru Legacy battery. We will cover the different types of batteries, charging methods, and provide you with some tips to help you maintain your battery’s health. By the end of this guide, you will have a better understanding of how long it takes to charge your car battery and how to ensure it is in good working condition.
Key Takeaways
- The time it takes to charge a 2017 Subaru Legacy battery depends on the battery’s capacity and the charging method used.
- It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours to charge a car battery, depending on the charging method and the battery’s state of charge.
- The most common method of charging a car battery is through the use of a battery charger, which can be connected to the car’s battery or used to charge the battery separately.
- To maintain your car battery’s health, it’s important to regularly check the battery’s charge level, clean the battery terminals, and avoid leaving the car’s electronics on for extended periods.
Types of Batteries
Before we discuss how long it takes to charge a 2017 Subaru Legacy battery, let’s first discuss the different types of batteries that are commonly used in cars.
Lead-Acid Batteries
Lead-acid batteries are the most common type of battery used in cars. They are relatively inexpensive and can store a large amount of energy. However, they are also heavy and have a relatively short lifespan compared to other types of batteries.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries are becoming increasingly popular in cars due to their high energy density and long lifespan. They are lighter and more compact than lead-acid batteries, making them ideal for use in electric and hybrid vehicles. However, they are also more expensive than lead-acid batteries.
Charging Methods
Now that we have discussed the different types of batteries, let’s move on to the different methods of charging a car battery.
Alternator Charging
The most common method of charging a car battery is through the alternator. When the engine is running, the alternator generates electricity that is used to charge the battery. This method is effective but can take several hours to fully charge a dead battery.
Battery Charger
A battery charger is an external device that can be used to charge a car battery. It can be connected to the battery while it is still in the car, or the battery can be removed and charged separately. This method is faster than alternator charging and can fully charge a battery in a few hours.
Jump-Starting
Jump-starting is a method of starting a car with a dead battery by using another car’s battery to provide the necessary charge. This method can be useful in emergency situations but should not be used as a regular charging method as it can damage the battery.
Solar Charging
Solar charging is a relatively new method of charging a car battery. It involves the use of solar panels to generate electricity that can be used to charge the battery. This method is environmentally friendly but can take a long time to fully charge a battery.
How Long Does it Take to Charge a 2017 Subaru Legacy Battery?
The time it takes to charge a 2017 Subaru Legacy battery depends on several factors, including the battery’s capacity, the charging method used, and the battery’s state of charge. In general, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours to fully charge a car battery.
For example, a 50 Ah (amp-hour) battery that is completely dead can take up to 12 hours to charge using a battery charger. However, if the battery is only partially discharged, it may only take a few hours to fully charge.
It’s important to note that charging times can vary depending on the charging method used. For example, alternator charging can take several hours to fully charge a battery, while a battery charger can charge a battery in a few hours.
Tips to Maintain Your Car Battery
To ensure that your 2017 Subaru Legacy battery remains in good working condition, it’s important to follow these tips:
Check the Charge Level Regularly
It’s important to regularly check your car battery’s charge level to ensure that it is not running low. This can be done using a multimeter or by taking your car to a mechanic for a battery check.
Clean the Battery Terminals
The battery terminals should be cleaned regularly to prevent corrosion, which can affect the battery’s performance. Use a wire brush or battery cleaner to remove any dirt or corrosion from the terminals.
Avoid Leaving Electronics On
Leaving the car’s electronics on for extended periods can drain the battery, so it’s important to turn off all electronics when the engine is not running. This includes the headlights, radio, and air conditioning.
Use a Battery Tender
A battery tender is a device that can be used to maintain a battery’s charge level when the car is not in use. This can be particularly useful if you have a car that is not driven regularly, such as a classic car or a car that is stored over the winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to charge a dead battery?
A: It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours to fully charge a dead battery, depending on the battery’s capacity and the charging method used.
Q: Can you overcharge a car battery?
A: Yes, overcharging a car battery can cause damage to the battery and reduce its lifespan.
Q: Can you charge a car battery while it’s still in the car?
A: Yes, you can charge a car battery while it’s still in the car using a battery charger.
Q: How long will a car battery last if it’s not used?
A: A car battery can last up to six months if it’s not used, but this can vary depending on the battery’s age and condition.
Conclusion
Charging a 2017 Subaru Legacy battery can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours, depending on the battery’s capacity and the charging method used. It’s important to regularly check the battery’s charge level, clean the battery terminals, and avoid leaving the car’s electronics on for extended periods to maintain the battery’s health. By following these tips, you can ensure that your car battery remains in good working condition and avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery.
