A lot of people get stressed when they see their phone battery running low. That’s why they jump at any chance to charge it up. And the car is a handy spot for a quick power boost. But how can you do it right and keep your battery healthy? Check out this easy guide for some tips on properly charging a phone in the car.
How can you charge a phone in the car?
Different cars have different ways to charge your phone, depending on their make, model, and features. Below are some of the best ways to charge your phone in the car:
Cigarette lighter
Getting a car charger with a USB port is super easy. Just plug it into the cigarette lighter in your car, and you’re good to go. But make sure it delivers at least 2 amps of current to charge your phone quickly. Most cigarette lighters can handle this, but it’s something to double-check when you’re buying a car charger. Just look at the packaging to be sure.
Built-in USB ports
Some cars come with built-in USB ports where you can plug in your phone charger. But tests show that these ports might not charge your phone very fast. If you’re running power-hungry apps like GPS navigation, your phone might use up more power than the USB port can handle. So, it might not keep your phone charged up enough, but it’s better for those who want to charge their phone in the car without using a cigarette lighter.
Wireless charging
Newer cars are starting to come with built-in wireless charging. You might find it as a tray or drawer in the middle console or under the armrest. No more fussing with cables! Just put your phone on the tray (if it can charge wirelessly). Different car brands might have their own versions, but they all follow the same Qi standard. If your phone works with it, you’re good to go!
What are the do’s and don’ts when charging your phone in the car?
People share lots of tips to make smartphone batteries last longer. It’s not a good idea to let your battery drain completely or to always charge it to full. Plus, you should watch out for the temperature around your phone.
And when it comes to charging your phone in the car, there are some specific points worth noting when charging your smartphone in the car:
- Did you plug your phone charger into the car’s cigarette lighter? Remember to unplug it if you’re stuck in traffic and your engine’s off. In small cars or with older batteries, you might have trouble starting up again, especially in the winter, if it’s been sitting for about half an hour.
- Check that your charging cables are in good shape and are of good quality when you plug them into the USB port. It’s safer to use cables made by the same brand as your phone, rather than cheaper ones from a different brand. This way, you know the cables won’t give your phone too much power and risk damaging it.
- Make sure to read the instructions from the manufacturer carefully, because each battery works a bit differently. And always stick to using the original charger that came with your device. It’s made specifically for your phone, so you know it’s the best way to charge it up safely.
- It’s not a good idea to use an extension cord in the car to charge your phone along with other devices. Charging too many things at once could cause a short circuit or blow a fuse.
- Always start your car before plugging in your phone. This helps make sure the power supply is stable. When you start your car, there’s a surge of electrical current that goes back and forth. If you plug in your charger during this time, it might send too much power to your phone and could end up damaging it.
- When you get to where you’re going, don’t forget to unplug your charger from the socket and your phone first. It’s not a good idea to leave it plugged in because it could end up damaging your device.
- Never leave your phone in the car when it’s parked in the sun. The temperature inside can get really hot, which can make your phone’s battery heat up too much. This could even make it explode.
Is charging a phone in the car a mistake?
Charging your phone in the car can be handy when you’re on the move and low on battery, but it’s important to consider its impact on both your phone and your car. Some common questions people have include: Why isn’t my phone charging? Does it use more gas? Could it damage my phone or car? The effects can vary depending on your phone and car model, but there are some key points to keep in mind.
Most car USB ports provide much less power than phones need to charge properly. They’re usually designed for things like playing music from a USB drive, which requires much less power. That’s why you might notice your phone charging slowly or not at all when connected to the car’s USB port. The power from the car charger is typically much lower than what your phone needs.
Follow this Safe and Effective Car Charging Guide for Your Phone
So, next time you’re charging your phone in the car, remember these tips for a smoother experience. Keep your battery healthy by using the right charger and cables, and always unplug when you’re done. And don’t forget to consider the temperature and avoid leaving your phone in the sun. With these simple steps, you can charge up on the go without any worries!