Take Charge of Your Car Battery for Longer Vehicle Life, AAA Advises
15 November 2000
Take Charge of Your Car Battery for Longer Vehicle Life, AAA Advises; Simple Maintenance Tips Keep Your Battery Fired Up Through Winter
SAN FRANCISCO--Nov. 15, 2000--A vehicle's battery is one of the automotive components most sensitive to weather changes, so before icy winter temperatures settle in, AAA advises motorists to do a quick check on their battery's condition."It's a tough life for a battery," said Bronwyn Hogan, AAA spokeswoman. "Summer's heat weakens them, and winter's freezing temperatures can rob batteries of up to fifty percent of their power. In addition, motorists are placing increased demands on batteries by charging cellular phones or computers, upgrading sophisticated audio components, or installing anti-theft or GPS devices."
Weak batteries should be replaced or recharged quickly because they add wear to the alternator and starter. Signs of a weak battery are: slow engine cranking, dim headlights and illumination of the battery/charging system warning light.
The easiest maintenance procedure is to keep the battery case clean; dirt and residue can cause a drain on the battery. Wearing gloves and eye protection, clean the battery case by wiping it down with a moist paper towel and mild detergent.
Corrosion around the terminal connections and hold-downs can be cleaned with a small stiff brush and a solution of baking soda and water. Rinse the battery with water being careful the water runoff does not damage the floor or driveway.
If the battery has removable vent caps, check the electrolyte fluid level. It should be above the tops of the plates inside the battery. If fluid is needed, add distilled water but do not overfill. Battery terminal connections should be tight. Adjust or replace loose or cracked fittings.
Jump-starting a battery can be dangerous and damage batteries and components. AAA recommends always check in the owner's manual for proper instructions and procedures. Never charge or jump-start a frozen battery or one low on electrolyte fluid; it may rupture or explode.
When replacing a battery, always choose one that has the same rating and the same physical size as the original. This will ensure proper fit and avoid excessive vibration that will shorten the battery's life.
"Simple maintenance can maximize the life of your battery," advises AAA's Hogan. "It is important to have your battery and charging system checked at least once a year. Early detection of a weak component can save time and money."
To assist motorists in better understanding how to maintain their vehicle, AAA has prepared a variety of automotive maintenance Web pages at www.aaa.com and some are available in brochure format at local AAA offices:
| -- | Make Sense of Car Care -- consumer tips on inspecting and maintaining your vehicle. |
| -- | Maintaining and Repairing your Car -- a comprehensive, non-technical guide to nine essential car maintenance functions; AAA's Consumer Repair Guide and dictionary. |
| -- | AAA Automotive FAQs -- Common questions on maintenance, repair, and car buying. |
| -- | Gas Watcher's Guide -- how to save more money and get more mileage. |
| -- | AAA Approved Auto Repair Facilities -- quick search directory of more than 700 AAA Approved Auto Repair(SM) facilities in Northern California, Nevada and Utah; all have met exacting standards of reliability and quality with their mechanical repairs. |
Your Safety Comes First:
Due to the complex nature of today's vehicles, it is essential that you use the utmost care when working on your car or truck. Before attempting any service or repair, consult your owner's manual. Be sure you understand the service procedure completely, have the proper tools and safety equipment and adhere to all safety precautions, including handling instructions for any chemicals you are using. If you are unsure about any repair, consult a professional technician.
