Spring’s warmer temperatures and longer days are finally starting to arrive. The onset of warm weather means it’s time to start plotting road trips and vacations — but it’s also a reminder to spend a moment on car battery maintenance.

It’s easy to keep your car’s battery in good condition — and spot an issue before it leaves you with a car that won’t start — if you follow these basic battery maintenance tips.

If you do have battery trouble, CAA’s Mobile Battery Service¹ can test and replace your old car battery on the spot. Plus, CAA Premium Batteries have a six-year warranty. Visit our website to see if battery service is available in your area.

Which season is harder on car batteries, summer or winter?

Hot weather is actually harder on your car’s battery than winter’s frigid temperatures. Batteries tend to enjoy a mild climate, performing best at around 25°C. In summer, the temperature in a car’s engine bay can climb to over 60°C. When it’s hot, parking in a shady area will help to keep the battery cool as well as the cabin.

What are the signs of a dying car battery?

If your battery dashboard warning light is on, you have unusually dim headlights, you struggle to start the engine, you’ve needed a boost one or more times lately or see bulging on the sides of the battery casing: these are all signs your car’s battery is on its last legs. Don’t wait. Get it tested and replaced (if needed) as soon as possible.

How long do car batteries last?

A typical 12-volt car battery’s lifespan is three to five years, on average; however, there is increased strain on batteries in modern vehicles thanks to high-tech features like infotainment systems and sensors. It’s a good idea to get the battery tested once it’s three or four years old. Leave it to the experts at CAA’s Mobile Battery Service, who can test, replace and recycle your old car battery — complete with free delivery and installation at no extra cost.

Where is the car’s battery?

With their tightly packaged engine bays, finding the battery on a modern car isn’t always easy. Batteries are often covered up by plastic panels or hidden behind covers. The usual places to look are under the hood, under the passenger seat, or in the trunk. If in doubt, consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual.

How to inspect your car’s battery?

Make a habit of giving your car’s battery a quick once-over every season. Look for any dirt or corrosion (white, blue or green-ish gunk) on the battery terminals. In addition, any strange smell or bulging of the battery is another cue to get the battery checked by a trusted mechanic.

Is it bad to keep the fan on while the car’s engine is off?

If the engine is off, your car’s battery isn’t charging. Keeping the headlights, radio, heating, or especially the AC on while the vehicle is off and parked can drain the battery quickly, so try to avoid it if possible.

Are short trips bad for the battery?

Short trips aren’t ideal for your car’s battery. Instead of only running quick errands to the grocery store or hockey practice, try to mix in longer drives, so the battery has a chance to fully recharge. Only doing short trips can lead to faster battery degradation.

What is a battery tender? When do I use one?

A battery tender — also known as a trickle charger — is a small charging device that delivers a slow stream of energy to sustain a battery’s charge level during long periods of inactivity. So, if you’re only ever using your vehicle for short trips, or you won’t be using your car for weeks at a time, consider installing one; it’ll keep your battery topped up so your car is ready when you need it.

Ready for the road? Check your vehicle against this list or use CAA’s Mobile Battery Service to make sure your battery stays strong for the season ahead.

Terms and Conditions

¹ CAA mobile Battery Service Member benefit subject to availability by geographical area. Call 1-800-222-4357 for location details. CAA Battery representatives will deliver, install and recycle your battery at no extra cost, upon purchase of a new CAA Premium Battery.