The extreme temperatures of both summer and winter really take a toll on car batteries.

That’s why we’re encouraging all drivers to get your car battery tested BEFORE winter descends to avoid an unexpected battery failure.

It’s a pretty quick check, too. When you’re getting winter tires put on, why not ask your mechanic to check and see if your battery will make it through the winter?

Want some tips on how to stay on top of what’s happening with your battery? 

Battery preventive maintenance.

• Swap out your old one – Most batteries last between three to five years. If yours is getting long in the tooth, replace it before wintertime.

• Keep corrosion at bay – The white or blue powder that appears on your battery terminals is corrosion, which can prevent a car from starting. Inspect your battery and carefully clean away any residue that you find.

• Install a battery blanket – These handy devices, which need to be plugged into an outlet, bathe your battery in heat. That stops the fluids inside from freezing. You can also install a trickle charger, which does virtually the same thing.

• Turn off your accessories – Don’t start the car with the heater and radio on. They can use up the power coming from the vehicle’s alternator and prevent the battery from charging.

• Disconnect your battery – If your car is going to sit idle for an extended period, unplug your battery. Some devices, like clocks and alarm systems, use power when the car is off. Left long enough, they can drain the battery.