Battery Tips

• Safety First
  
  
• Before You Start
  
  

1. Test your battery if it's more than 4 years old. That's the average life expectancy, but this will vary depending on weather, usage, etc.
   
   
2. Check your battery and charging system seasonally. Ask your mechanic to do a "load test" to see if it's generating a sufficient charge on below-freezing days. If it fails the test, replace the battery.
   
   
3. Visually inspect the battery on a regular basis to ensure the top is clean and dry. If it's encrusted with deposits (a build-up of white powder known as corrosion), this can act as an insulator and block the flow of the electrical current. Clean it with a wire brush dipped in baking soda and water. Remember: Safety First
   
   
4. Maintenance-free batteries usually have an indicator light. Generally:
   • Green indicator = good battery
   • Black indicator = battery needs service

   If your indicator is black, call CAA Battery Assist for service!

5. Check that the battery is secure by inspecting the "battery hold down" for looseness and corrosion. Excess vibration will shorten the life of your battery.
   
   
6. Check the tightness of the battery cable ends that attach to it. A loose connection will make it more difficult to start your car. If the cable ends are loose, tighten them. A loose connection can prevent the car from starting and prevent a successful boost.
   
   
7. If you are storing your battery for an extended period of time, make sure it's fully charged and store it in a cool, dry location. Avoid excessive heat and cold.
   
   
8. If your vehicle is only used for short trips, take it for an occasional long drive to fully charge the battery.
   
   
9. Avoid draining your battery (over discharging) as this will shorten the life span. Examples of over discharging are:
   1. leaving your headlights on for an extended period of time
   2. "cranking" the starter for long periods of time when the car will not start

10. Trying to repeatedly start your vehicle in freezing temperatures is especially harmful. This type of discharge will cause your battery to freeze, the plates to touch, and your battery to short out.