Battery Care and Symptoms from Ohio's Battery Experts

Your car's battery is one of the most important parts of the vehicle, without it all other vehicle components would not matter. One common misconception about your battery is that extremely cold temperatures are the main "killer" of your battery. While this may be true, there is also sufficient evidence that suggests hot summer months do just as much damage to the internal components of an acid based battery. With any oil change, your local Bob Sumerel Tire location will test your battery in order to see if it is performing properly.
Fortunately, batteries often will start to show signs of a decrease in power long before the battery actually dies. This week's blog takes a look at your battery, as well as tell tale signs that it is time to replace it.

• Check engine light is on- If you notice slower cranking than usual, as well as a check engine light illuminated, its time to have your battery tested! 
• Visible battery leak- Visual inspections of your battery can be done at any time, Simply look around the top seal of the battery for any fluid seeping out of the top casing. 
• A clicking sound when you try to start your car- When you hear this, you can rule out that your starter is bad. Have your battery checked and replaced if needed. 
• Slower cranking, especially on cold days- Be sure to pay attention to if your car "drags" while it starts. If it begins to drag, it may be time to get your battery checked. Any local Bob Sumerel Tire Co. can test your battery for free! 
• You have needed a jump frequently- While jumps can fix a battery that is drained, a dead battery will continue to give you problems, requiring a jump almost every time. 

The good thing is that most battery replacements can be done quickly, and with minimal effort of installation. Something to keep in mind when purchasing a new battery is how long the warranty lasts. If you are planning on keeping a vehicle for a long time, it might be worth the investment to get a battery that is expected to last longer. Batteries on the market today have warranties lasting anywhere from 90 days up to 5 years. To get a quote on a new battery, contact your local Bob Sumerel Tire location for further details.