Think using your car’s USB port to charge your phone is safe? Think again! This seemingly harmless habit could be causing more harm than good.
The Hidden Dangers of Your Car’s USB Port
At first glance, your car’s USB port may seem convenient. However, it’s not always the right fit for your modern devices. In fact, these ports often provide much less power than your phone requires. The result? Inefficient charging and an increased risk of damaging your device.
Imagine spending 30 minutes in traffic, thinking you’re optimizing the time to charge your phone, only to find that the battery level has barely changed. This is common, as your phone sometimes draws more power than it receives through this type of port.
Too much or too little power: a risk for your device
In addition to insufficient power, your car’s USB port or 12V outlets can sometimes send out too much power. These outlets, inherited from old cigarette lighters, are capable of delivering up to 10 amps, well beyond the 1 to 3 amps that a conventional charger uses. A faulty or poor quality charger can cause surges or overheating, jeopardizing your phone’s internal components.
Your car battery: a balance to respect
Do you think your car battery is infallible? Think again. Charging a phone while the engine is off, in “accessory” mode, can drain the battery faster than expected, especially if your vehicle is old. Modern batteries can better withstand this use, but it is still better to be vigilant.
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