AAA – Today is National Battery Day

AAA says today, February 18th, is National Battery Day, and the organization is advising all motorists to be aware of battery issues, especially in the frigid temperatures. The organization says with winter weather and frigid temperatures returning again to sub-zero, it is important to keep your car battery on the mind. 

AAA says car batteries lose a third of their power in freezing temperatures due to the oil thickening and making it harder to turn an engine over when starting. Battery related service calls have accounted for 24% of all AAA calls so far in February. 

“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.”

Signs motorists should be aware of when a battery is coming towards the end of its life include a vehicle cranking slowly when trying to start, a grinding, clicking or buzzing when the ignition is turned on, vehicle stalling, headlights being dim when the car is idling, and if the battery is over three years old.

Car batteries should be checked every time you get an oil change, AAA says there could be visual signs of damage or corrosion that leads to a battery dying.