Thursday, February 18, 2021 is National Battery Day, and AAA is using this opportunity to share tips on how motorists can keep their car batteries in good working condition during the current cold snap. 

February is bringing winter storms across the region, which means 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 AAA’s local service calls. With people working from home and using their vehicles less, many cars are sitting in driveways and parking spaces for days on end without being driven. This week’s cold temperatures could complicate the problem even further.

AAA is reminding motorists 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 technicians can conduct battery testing right in the driveways or at the workplaces of motorists with AAA mobile battery trucks, which operate in most areas.

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

An unused vehicle can lead to more problems than just battery issues as explained in this AAA article. Motorists should keep car maintenance a priority even during quarantine. 

Motorists should have their cars inspected by a trusted technician regularly. Auto repair is an essential service, and motorists can find a AAA Approved Auto Repair (AAR) facility at this link.

AAA’s Car Care Plus in Clarence is also an option for auto repair in Western New York. 

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 1-800-836-CLUB.