National Battery Day is recognized annually on February 18. Batteries are so central to powering our daily lives, they’ve earned their own national holiday! AAA is using National Battery Day to share tips on how motorists can keep their car batteries in good working condition. 

February brings changing weather patterns across the region. AAA Western and Central New York’s battery related service calls increase during frigid temperatures. In fact, on an average February day, battery related needs account for 24 percent of local service calls. 

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:
1.    Test your battery if it’s 3 years or older – it could be on the brink of dying and leaving you stranded!
2.    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!
3.    Make sure cable connections are clean and tight – corrosion could compromise the electrical connections and cause your car not to start.
4.    Check the mounting hardware – excessive vibration from a loose battery is a detriment to battery life.
5.    Purchase batteries from high-volume sellers with fresh stock like AAA or NAPA – old batteries that sit on a shelf too long may need replacing much sooner than expected.
6.    Install the right battery for your vehicle – installing an incorrect battery can cause major damage to the car’s electrical system.
7.    Choose a reputable and trusted auto repair shop – you want peace of mind when it does come time to replace your battery. Find a AAA Approved Auto Repair shop at www.AAA.com/AutoRepair.
8.    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.

AAA is reminding motorists, who don’t drive often, to regularly go out and start their vehicle, and to take a ride around the neighborhood to keep the battery in good working condition.

AAA’s Mobile Battery Service is available in most areas. Request service via the free AAA Mobile App (www.AAA.com/Mobile), at AAA.com, or by calling 1-800-AAA-HELP.