Battery Safety: Protecting Yourself – and Your Car

Car batteries are complex energy powerhouses that run all the onboard electrics of your vehicle (e.g., lights, radio, power seats, backup camera, etc.). Though they may look unassuming, by handling one incorrectly you could cause damage to your car, or even worse, to yourself! Before you pop the hood, brush up on battery dos and don’ts.

LEAVE IT TO THE PROS

First and foremost, when it comes to your battery, we always recommend leaving it to the pros. AAA Battery Service Technicians service car batteries every day and are properly outfitted with personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety goggles and rubber gloves. They go through rigorous training to prepare for a number of scenarios and are aware of the potential dangers and how to avoid them.

If you decide to perform battery maintenance on your vehicle, follow these important tips for a safer experience.

Jump Starting a Car Battery

• Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes and always wear rubber gloves to protect your skin from harmful chemicals.
• Always double-check the condition of the jump cables being used. If you see any exposed cabling or fraying, stop and call in a professional.
• If your vehicle sat overnight during the winter season, it’s best to call in the pros to ensure you do not jump start a frozen battery.

Read your Owner’s Manual before taking any action: every car is different.

Keeping Your Car Battery Charged and Clean

• Regularly drive your car to recharge your battery. Keep in mind, short distances are not enough. Even when your car is off, the battery is working to power systems like your clock and radio.
• Keep your battery terminals clean to avoid corrosion using stiff wire brush (this is best left to the pros).
• Use a Battery Tender to keep your car battery charged when it sits unused for extended periods. Battery Tenders can be purchased through your local AAA office and are great for RVs.

If you think your car battery is leaking, call in the pros! The battery is filled with sulfuric acid, which can be harmful, even if you’re wearing protective gear. Schedule a battery inspection with your AAA Membership at 1-800-AAA-HELP. A Battery Service Technician will come to your chosen location to inspect and test your battery. In most cases, they can replace the battery onsite, if needed. You and your battery will be ready to roll in no time, without ever getting your hands dirty.