MEMPHIS, Tenn., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Nothing can ruin your day like a
dead battery. Dead batteries are all too common this time of year, and
automotive batteries aren't designed to last forever. In most cases, a battery
only lasts about four years. Do you know when your battery was last replaced?
If not, you're gambling with your safety. So how can you avoid getting
stranded?
AutoZone says it's important to know the warning signs of battery failure.
Even though today's automotive batteries and electrical systems are more
dependable than ever, automotive industry statistics show that the life
expectancy of most original equipment (that is, the parts installed at the
factory) batteries is only around four years. If your battery is more than
three years old, you may have already experienced some of the warning signs of
failure, like slow starts, dimming lights, or multiple jump-starts. These are
sure signals of a bad battery, and should be acted on immediately.
Unfortunately, batteries can also fail without any warning, so battery testing
is important to stay safe.
Have your battery tested. Years of extreme heat, cold and vibration take
their toll on your battery, making it less effective over time. Winter weather
can amplify any problems, with the cold dramatically reducing a battery's
available starting power. That's why it's a good idea to have your car's
starting and charging system tested every six months.
Inspect your battery cables, posts, and fasteners. In many cases, a good
battery has been blamed for starting problems caused by frayed or corroded
battery cables. Some estimates suggest that one out of every five cars on the
road has a problem with battery accessories that could lead to battery
failure. Make sure your cables are in good shape and are secured firmly to the
battery.
Install a set of battery washers. One way to make a good battery last
longer is to prevent corrosion with a set of battery washers. It's also a good
idea to apply a liberal coating of corrosion resistance spray to your battery
posts and terminals.
Make sure a bad battery is the problem. Often batteries wear out over
time, but another common cause for battery failure is a defective alternator.
In fact, a bad alternator can kill a perfectly good battery. That's why it's
important to bring your car to AutoZone for a complete starting and charging
system test, for free. This can help you make sure your battery, starter, and
alternator are all working like they should.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW WHEN BUYING A NEW BATTERY:
There are a number of factors to consider when purchasing a new battery,
including cranking power, warranty, and price. Here are some tips for
selecting the proper one for your vehicle.
Check your owner's manual. There you'll find the right size battery for
your vehicle. Some batteries are available as top-post or side-post versions,
so check under the hood to see which one you need.
Check your CCAs. When the temperature falls below freezing, the power
required to start your car increases, but your battery's cranking power drops
by 33 percent. If winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing where you
live, make sure your battery has the highest level of cold cranking amps, or
CCAs, available.
Check the warranty. There are usually two parts to a battery's warranty --
the free replacement period (usually between 90 days and three years), and the
prorated warranty, under which a percentage of the purchase price is refunded
based on the length of ownership (generally between three and eight years). If
you expect to keep your car for a number of years, consider purchasing a
battery with a longer warranty.
About AutoZone:
As of November 20, 2004, the Company had 3,448 stores in 48 states plus
the District of Columbia in the U.S. and 64 stores in Mexico. AutoZone is the
nation's leading retailer of automotive parts and accessories. Each store
carries an extensive product line for cars, sport utility vehicles, vans and
light trucks, including new and remanufactured automotive hard parts,
maintenance items, accessories, and non-automotive products. Many domestic
stores also have a commercial sales program that provides commercial credit
and prompt delivery of parts and other products to local, regional and
national repair garages, dealers and service stations. AutoZone also sells
the ALLDATA brand diagnostic and repair software. On the web, AutoZone sells
diagnostic and repair information and auto and light truck parts
through http://www.autozone.com . AutoZone does not derive revenue from
automotive repair or installation.
SOURCE AutoZone, Inc.
01/14/2005
CONTACT: Media, Ray Pohlman, +1-901-495-7962, or
ray.pohlman@autozone.com , or Financial, Brian Campbell, +1-901-495-7005, or
brian.campbell@autozone.com , both of AutoZone, Inc.
Web site: http://www.autozone.com
http://www.alldatadiy.com
(AZO)