A Weak Battery Can Ruin School, Holiday Travel
Replace Old Batteries, Peek Under the Hood
ROANOKE, Va., Aug. 19 -- If you're still driving around with an old or weak battery under your vehicle's hood, consider yourself lucky that it hasn't stranded you -- yet.
Whether it's carpool day and you're responsible for delivering the children to school on time, or your child calls from college saying the car won't start, a certain sinking feeling accompanies a dead battery. Follow a few simple recommendations from the car-care experts at Advance Auto Parts to prevent your battery from leaving you stranded and inconveniencing everyone as school and holiday travel gear up.
"Preventive maintenance can help ensure that when you turn the key the battery brings the engine to life," said Phil Akin, director of marketing for Advance Auto Parts.
* Freshness -- batteries should be replaced approximately every three
years. If the battery is nearing, or past, its third birthday, consider
making a preemptive strike by replacing it. Temperature extremes can
cause weak batteries to finally fail.
* Eliminate vibration -- ensure that the battery is clamped down securely.
Vibration can loosen a battery's internal components, causing a short
and battery failure.
* Maintenance -- most batteries today are maintenance-free and require
only a quick look at the indicator "eye" for reassurance that the
battery is charged and functioning properly. On batteries that require
maintenance, check the water levels in the battery cells to ensure
they're filled to the proper level.
* Improper Charging -- both undercharging and overcharging can shorten a
battery's life. A faulty alternator or regulator can cause either
condition. A simple test of the charging system can tell you if it's
functioning properly. If your battery is accidentally "drained" or
discharged because the lights were left on, for example, recharge it as
soon as possible to prevent shortening the battery's life. Every Advance
Auto Parts provides free battery and charging system tests.
Take a look at the battery terminals and cables for any signs of corrosion. If corrosion is present, follow the battery manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the cables and terminals or make an appointment with your mechanic. Corrosion can weaken the battery's starting power and even stop it from delivering any power if the corrosion is heavy enough to interrupt the electrical connection.
Finally, use extreme caution when handling a battery since it can produce explosive gases. Do not smoke, create a spark or light a match near a battery and always wear protective glasses and gloves.
If you think your battery is on its last legs, or are uncomfortable replacing a battery, every Advance Auto Parts location provides free battery installation.
While under the hood, a quick check of some important vehicle systems is a good idea too before shuttling kids to and from school, embarking on vacation travel or joining the annual college student migration back to campus.
Belts and Hoses -- cracked belts or hoses with soft spots need to be replaced.
Fluid levels -- fluids evaporate -- particularly during the hot summer months -- leak and deteriorate, and need to be checked regularly. Follow your owner's manual instructions for checking vehicle oil, automatic transmission, coolant, windshield washer and brake fluid levels.
Tire Pressure -- check pressures with a tire gauge when the tires are cool. Follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommended inflation pressures and check the spare tire.
Windshield wipers -- replace wipers at least once a year for maximum visibility.
Every neighborhood Advance Auto Parts store provides customers with a number of free services, including free windshield wiper installation, and free battery, alternator and starter testing.
Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is based in Roanoke, Va., and is the second largest auto parts chain in the nation. With almost 2,500 stores, in 38 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, the Company serves both the do-it- yourself and professional installer markets. Additional information about the Company, employment opportunities, services, as well as on-line purchase of parts and accessories can be found on the Company's web site at www.advanceautoparts.com.
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