• Car batteries allow our cars to start.Ablestock.com/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
  
  A car battery is the heart of a car's electric system and is vital for a car to start and run properly. Regular checks of your car's battery are necessary to ensure dependable vehicle operation. Most Japanese car manufacturers, such as Toyota, use Panasonic Ca-Expanded type automotive batteries. The 2002 Toyota Highlander uses a Panasonic brand battery; knowing the specifications on this type of car battery will help increase its longevity.
  
  

Lifespan

• Cars manufacturers like Toyota use the Panasonic Ca-Expanded brand automotive battery. Over the years, continuous improvements made to this brand have increased its performance and reliability. On average, the Panasonic brand battery used in the 2002 Toyota Highlander lasts for nearly five years. Regular maintenance, as well as environmental conditions, impact the lifespan of your car battery.
  
  

Maintenance

• Daily or weekly maintenance of your use Panasonic Ca-Expanded battery will increase its longevity and help your Highlander run smoothly. Self maintenance checks include popping open the hood of the car and making sure the battery and the battery's mounts are tight and secure. If the battery comes loose, the power will drain, causing the car to have a hard time starting. This simple check will increase the life of your Panasonic car battery. Next, your regular maintenance checks should include looking for any damage or corrosion in the battery cables. If corrosion occurs, take proper steps to remove it by seeking your local dealership or auto-body shop. Last, be aware of your check engine or check battery light. If either comes on, take proper measures to correcting the problem(s) associated with it. Failure to do so may strain your battery.
  
  

Temperature

• Environmental conditions impact the lifespan of your car battery. The manufacturers of the Panasonic Ca-Expanded battery developed their battery to perform under high temperature, thus avoiding the likelihood of damage from overheating. Using an insulating blanket can help insulate your car battery, protecting it from cold weather conditions and heat from the engine as well. It is vital to know that both extreme heat and cold impact the life of your Highlander's battery. Using the insulated blanket will increase the lifespan of the battery.