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Auto
Battery Basics
If you're like most drivers, you likely don't think about your vehicle battery until your car fails to start. While batteries don't require much maintenance, some simple tips can help prolong their life span and reduce your chances of needing a boost.
Keeping the battery clean and dry
- Avoid discharge and corrosion by removing dirt that may build up on the battery's surface.
- Keep batteries clean from oil or grease, as this attracts dirt to the top of the battery.
- Batteries can be cleaned with bicarbonate baking soda and water. Never remove vent caps while cleaning the battery and always wear safety glasses.
Periodically checking the battery terminals
- Dirty or corroded terminals should be cleaned with bicarbonate baking soda.
- Terminals should be free of any moisture prior to reconnecting.
- Terminals can be coated with heat-resistant grease.
Avoiding vibrations
Vibration due to an unsecured battery can cause internal battery damage, resulting in shortened battery life expectancy.
Recharging dead batteries
Batteries that are dead due to lights and accessories being left on, or due to an electrical fault, should be properly recharged on a charging stand at a service facility to ensure the battery returns to its optimum condition.
Not overcharging
Overcharging produces corrosion and rapid deterioration, which results in shortened battery life.
Proper testing equipment
- Club Assist Tester: A fast, accurate and hassle-free charging system that provides battery diagnostics. Results are provided in an easy-to-understand format that serves as a reminder about the condition of your battery.
- Autotest Electrics Analyzer: This multi-function tester is able to test almost all electrical systems in a vehicle.
CCA and RC Ratings
- Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) is the industry recognized standard for defining starter power. The battery's ability to perform is measured by the amount of current the battery can deliver at 0°Fahrenheit (-18°Celsius) over 30 seconds, while maintaining a voltage equivalent of 1.2 volts per cell or higher. A 12-volt battery must maintain a voltage equivalent of 7.2 volts.
- The Reserve Capacity (RC) rating represents the number of minutes at 80° Fahrenheit (26.7°Celsius) that a battery can supply a load of 25 amps and maintain a voltage pf 1.75 volts or higher per cell (10.5 volts for a 12-volt battery.)
As a CAA Member, if you ever experience problems getting your vehicle to start, you can use our Battery Assist service which tests the life of your battery and boosts it. Or, if the battery requires replacement, we'll install a new CAA battery with exclusive Member pricing.
Learn about CAA Battery Assist »
Contact CAA Battery Assist through our Roadside Services call centre »
Save on auto insurance
CAA Members save on CAA auto insurance. It's like getting your CAA membership for free.
Your vehicle won't start?
Not to worry because Battery Assist can help you get on your way by testing the life of your battery and boosting it. Or, we'll install a new CAA battery with exclusive pricing for Members.
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