Welcome to the official battery guide for your Freddo ride-on car! A healthy battery is the key to hours of fun. The single most important rule to remember is:
The Golden Rule: You MUST charge the battery for a full 12-18 hours *before* the very first use. Failure to do this can permanently reduce the battery's maximum capacity.
How to Charge Your Battery (The Critical First Charge)
Properly conditioning your new battery is essential for its lifespan. Follow these steps exactly.
- Locate the Charging Port: On most models, this is found on the dashboard, under the seat, or near the side of the car body.
- Use the Correct Charger: Only use the official Freddo charger that came with your vehicle. Using a different charger is dangerous and will void your warranty.
- Plug In: Connect the charger to the car's charging port first, then plug the charger into a wall outlet.
- Charge for 12-18 Hours: Let it charge, uninterrupted, for at least 12 hours, but no more than 20 hours.
- Do Not Use: Do NOT let your child ride the car before this first charge is complete, even if it has some power from the factory.
Regular Charging and Ride Time
How long does a regular charge take?
After the initial charge, a regular charge (e.g., after a full play session) will take approximately 8 to 10 hours.
- Do not overcharge: Avoid leaving the car plugged in for more than 12-15 hours on a regular basis.
- Charge after every use: Always recharge the battery after your child is done playing, even if they only used it for 10 minutes. This keeps the battery in optimal condition.
How long will the battery last on one charge?
A full charge typically provides 45 to 90 minutes of continuous ride time. This can vary significantly based on several factors:
- Terrain: Driving on thick grass, hills, or gravel uses much more power than on smooth pavement.
- Rider Weight: A heavier rider will result in a shorter runtime.
- Speed Setting: Using the higher speed settings will drain the battery faster.
- Accessories: Constant use of headlights, music, and Bluetooth will also reduce ride time.
How to Store Your Battery (Long-Term & Winter Storage)
Improper storage is the #1 cause of dead batteries. If you plan to store the car for more than a month (e.g., during winter), follow these steps to save your battery:
- Give it a Full Charge: Charge the battery for a full 8-10 hours *before* you store it.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store the vehicle (or just the battery, if removable) indoors in a location that stays above freezing but is not hot (e.g., a closet or basement, NOT a cold shed).
- Disconnect (Optional but Recommended): If possible, disconnect the battery terminals from the car to prevent any minor power drain.
- CHARGE IT ONCE A MONTH: This is the second golden rule! A lead-acid battery will slowly lose its charge over time. You MUST plug it in and charge it for 8-10 hours every 30 days, even when not in use.
Failure to charge the battery monthly during storage will cause it to discharge completely, and it will likely not accept a charge again.
Battery Maintenance & Troubleshooting FAQ
Here are answers to our most common battery questions:
1. Q: My car won't turn on after storing it for winter. What's wrong?
A: 99% of the time, this means the battery was not charged monthly during storage. It has likely fallen into a deep discharge state and will need to be replaced. Always remember to charge it every 30 days!
2. Q: Can I use a 24V charger on my 12V car for a "faster charge"?A: NO. Absolutely not. This is extremely dangerous, a fire hazard, and will destroy the 12V battery and electrical system. Only use the charger that came with your specific 6V or 12V model.
3. Q: Is the battery covered under warranty?
A: Batteries are considered consumable items and typically have a limited warranty period (e.g., 30-90 days). Damage due to improper charging or storage (like not charging it monthly) is not covered by the warranty.
4. Q: When do I need to replace the battery?
A: A well-maintained battery should last 1-3 years. You will know it's time for a replacement when the ride time becomes very short (e.g., only 10-15 minutes) even after a full 10-hour charge.
5. Q: Is it okay to leave the charger plugged in all the time?
A: We do not recommend this. Our chargers are smart, but the safest practice is to unplug the charger from the wall and the car once charging is complete (after 8-10 hours).
A Happy Battery Means a Happy Rider!
Proper battery care is simple and ensures your child gets the most out of their Freddo ride-on. Just remember the golden rules: a long 12-18 hour first charge, charge after every use, and charge once a month during storage.
Have more questions about your car? Check out our Parental Remote Control Guide or learn about the differences between 24V vs 48V models!
