As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, it's a great time to make sure your car is ready for colder weather. One important item to check? Your car battery. Even if it's working fine now, the effects of summer heat could leave you with a dead battery when temperatures drop.

Summer May Have Damaged Your Battery

The long, hot summer takes a toll on your car battery. As the sun beats down, temperatures under the hood can reach up to 170 degrees! Extreme heat increases corrosion inside the battery and shortens its lifespan.

By the time fall arrives, your battery may already be losing its charge. Since cars have a harder time starting in colder temperatures, it's important to have your battery tested before winter. A little preventive maintenance now can help you avoid getting stranded after the first cold snap.

Warning Signs Your Battery Is Dying

Ideally, the best time to replace your battery is before it dies. So how can you tell if your car battery is nearing the end of its life? Common warning signs include:

• Check engine light is on
• Engine is slow to start
• Lights are dim
• Onboard electrical components aren't working as usual (e.g., radio, power windows, heated seats, or cell phone charger)
• A foul smell, similar to rotten eggs, coming from under the hood
• Battery case is swollen or cracked
• Battery is three to five years old

Fall Car Battery Care

Before colder weather arrives, call AAA to schedule a car battery inspection at your home, office, or wherever is most convenient for you. A professional AAA Battery Service Technician will come to your location to make sure your vehicle is ready to go when you are.

The technician performs a complete diagnostic test of your charging system and checks that the battery connections are clean, tight, and free of corrosion. If needed, the technician can even replace your battery on the spot. All AAA batteries come with a six-year warranty, including three years of free replacement.

Taking care of your car battery this fall can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns as temperatures drop. With a convenient battery inspection from AAA, you can head into the colder months with greater confidence that your vehicle will start when you need it.