National Battery Day is February 18, and it’s time to appreciate all that your car battery does! It supplies the electrical current that the starter motor needs to crank the engine. It powers components and accessories when the engine is not running and, when electrical loads temporarily exceed the car’s charging system capacity, the battery supplies the needed extra current. The battery also acts as a voltage stabilizer for the entire electrical system.

Today’s vehicles have more electrical demands than ever before, and batteries play an essential role in meeting those demands.

Two types of car batteries

While manufacturers are always working on improvements, today’s car batteries generally fall into two basic design categories:

• Flooded lead acid (FLA), which has been the standard for decades
• Absorbent glass mat (AGM), a newer design that offers advantages in specific applications

The right battery for your car

The flooded battery and glass mat battery serve the same basic function, but do not work interchangeably. If your car has a start-stop system that shuts down the engine while you’re stopped at traffic lights, you likely need an AGM battery. It’s important to consult your owner’s manual, and your AAA technician, before you purchase a replacement battery.

AAA is also using National Battery Day to share tips on how motorists can keep a strong charge in their car batteries. Motorists who don’t drive often should regularly go out and start their vehicle and take a ride around the neighborhood to keep the battery in good working condition. AAA’s technicians can also conduct battery testing right in the driveway or at the workplace of a motorist by utilizing AAA mobile battery trucks. 

Motorists should be aware of signs that show a car's battery is nearing the end of its life. Here are some 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 find a AAA Approved Auto Repair (AAR) facility at this link. 

AAA’s Mobile Battery Service is available in most areas. Request service via the free AAA Mobile App, www.AAA.com/Mobile.
 

In need of repair? Visit a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility.

AAA Auto Repair