Battery Service
Everything starts with your battery - literally. The power from your battery is needed to start your engine, as well as run the secondary electrical systems of your vehicle.
When the combined electrical load of your lights, stereo, air conditioning and other systems surpasses the capability of the charging system, the battery provides the extra electrical power required by storing the energy generated by the alternator.
To keep everything moving, keep your battery in good condition. Before cold weather starts and at least once a month in hot weather, maintain your battery by:
- Keeping the correct electrolyte levels
- Tightening loose hold-down clamps and terminals
- Removing corrosion
- Checking the alternator belt tension and wear
If you aren't sure how to perform these checks, ask your service technician at your Goodyear Auto Service Center to show you. They'll be glad to help.
Identifying Battery Problems
There are ways to tell that you may have battery problems:
- Electrical systems, including stereo, power windows, lights and air conditioning, do not work
- Electrical systems work but occasionally cut out or operate "dimly"
- Vehicle is slow to start
- Vehicle needs a jump to start
- Battery light on dashboard is lit
When you choose a new battery, remember that where you live can influence the type of battery you should consider. Colder temperatures reduce battery performance, so those who live in cold climates should look for batteries with a high Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating. Higher cold cranking amps provide the additional power required to start cold engines.
When its time for a new battery, your Goodyear Auto Service Center can replace and properly dispose of your existing battery.
Caution: Automotive batteries contain sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid is poisonous and highly corrosive. Because of this, care should be taken as sulfuric gasses are produced when a battery is recharged and could cause an explosion if ignited.
When working with automotive batteries, work in a well-ventilated area and exercise caution. Remove any jewelry, loose clothing and wear protective eyewear. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for any battery maintenance or recharging.