With more winter weather and frigid temperatures on the way, car batteries will be on the minds of many area residents. Did you know that a car battery loses a third of its power in freezing temperatures? Why? Because as the air outside cools, the oil in the vehicle thickens, making it harder to turn the engine over.
AAA Western and Central New York’s battery related service calls increase amid freezing temperatures. In fact, on an average February day, battery related needs account for 24 percent of local service calls. This year, battery calls have been on the rise since it’s been a cold winter.
“Driving your car is the best way to maintain its charge,” said AAA Dispatch Manager Dan Fisher. “Motorists should keep this in mind and shouldn’t wait until the last minute to make sure vehicles start. If possible, park inside a garage where it is warmer.”
AAA offers the following tips for how motorists can keep their car batteries in good working condition. Motorists should be aware of signs that a car’s battery is nearing the end of its life. A few things to look out for:
•Vehicle cranks slowly when trying to start
•Grinding, clicking or buzzing when the ignition is turned on
•Vehicle has stalled
•Headlights dim when idling, but brighten when the driver revs the engine
•Battery is more than three years old .
Motorists can also adopt some common practices to avoid a battery breakdown:
•Have AAA test your battery if it’s three years old or older – it could be on the brink of dying and leaving you stranded.
•Inspect your car battery at every oil change – there could be visual signs of damage or corrosion, another indicator that your battery may be close to dying.
•Make sure cable connections are clean and tight – corrosion could compromise the electrical connections and cause your car not to start.
•Check the mounting hardware – excessive vibration from a loose battery is a detriment to battery life.
•Purchase batteries from high-volume sellers with fresh stock – old batteries that sit on a shelf too long may need replacing much sooner than expected.
•Install the right battery for your vehicle – installing an incorrect battery can cause major damage to the car’s electrical system.
•Choose a reputable and trusted auto repair shop – you want peace of mind when it comes time to replace your battery. Find a AAA Approved Auto Repair shop at www.AAA.com/
AutoRepair.
•Keep it convenient. AAA offers Mobile Battery Service as a member benefit. Roadside service techs will come to any location to test and, if needed, replace your battery. Learn more at www.AAA.com/Battery.
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