some kind of battery?

An automotive battery is a rechargeable battery that supplies electrical energy to a motor vehicle. It is also known as an SLI battery and its main purpose is to start the engine. Once the engine is running, power for the car is supplied by the alternator.

Yes. A battery basically just starts the car. The alternator takes over and then supplies power to the vehicle and recharges the battery.

A battery can develop a shorted cell because the cell plates shed debris over time, and this debris falls into cavities at the bottom of the cell. When the cavity is full, the debris will contact the bottom edge of the cell plates, shorting the cell.

A simple test to check the working of the alternator is by running your car; and then unplugging the positive connection of the battery. If the car stops, then you most likely have a problem with the alternator. Another simple test is to check your interior lights.

Now, you can replace the battery covers. In case of sealed batteries, you need to replace the plastic plugs and the cover. You can connect the battery terminals to the battery charger and allow the charging slowly for 24 hours. You have saved lot of money by simply reconditioning your old car battery.