Article overview

In this guide, we’ll walk you through three easy, convenient ways to get back on the road:

• Using AAA Mobile Car Battery Service for on-the-spot replacement wherever you are via AAA Roadside Assistance.

• Visiting a AAA-owned Car Care Center or one of our AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities for professional installation.

• Handling it yourself with a DIY replacement using parts from trusted retailers like NAPA Auto Parts.

You probably don’t spend much time thinking about your car battery, that is, until the moment you turn the key and hear nothing but a dreaded click. For years, that silent partner under the hood has reliably started your engine and powered everything from your headlights to your phone charger. But like every other part of your vehicle, it has a lifespan. When that time runs out, knowing your options ahead of time can save you from being stranded.

Whether you're already noticing slow starts or just want to be prepared, now is the perfect time to assess your battery health. Read on to discover which replacement method is right for you.

Is it time to replace your car battery?

Ideally, you want to replace your battery before it leaves you stuck in a parking lot. Fortunately, your car often gives subtle warning signs before the battery completely fails. Recognizing these symptoms early can help you avoid an unexpected breakdown.

Here are some signs of a failing car battery

Keep an eye out for these common indicators that your battery is nearing the end of its life:

• Sluggish engine crank: If your car takes longer than usual to start or sounds "tired" when you turn the key, the battery may be losing its charge capacity.

• Electrical issues: Dim headlights, flickering dashboard lights or sluggish power windows often indicate the battery is struggling to supply enough power.

• Corrosion: White, ashy deposits (battery corrosion) on the metal battery terminals can lead to voltage issues and trouble starting your vehicle.

• Check engine light: Sometimes the check engine light or battery icon appears when your battery power is weak.

When to replace your vehicle battery

Even if you don't see obvious symptoms, age is a major factor. The typical lifespan of a car battery is 3 to 5 years, depending on your driving habits and the climate in which you live (extreme heat or cold can be particularly harsh on batteries).

If your battery is three years old or more, we recommend testing it annually. Regular testing gives you peace of mind and allows you to replace an aging battery on your schedule, rather than waiting for an emergency.

Three ways to replace your car battery

Once you’ve determined it’s time for a new battery, you have several convenient options. Whether you prefer a professional to handle it or you’re comfortable under the hood, there’s a solution that fits your needs.

AAA Mobile Car Battery Service

Imagine getting a new battery without ever leaving your home, workplace or even the side of the road. That’s the convenience of AAA Mobile Car Battery Service. This service is designed to get you moving again with minimal disruption to your day.

Here’s what you can expect:

• On-the-spot testing: A technician comes to your location to perform a complete diagnostic test on your current battery and your vehicle’s starting and charging system.

• Immediate replacement: If you need a new battery, the technician can professionally install a high-quality AAA-branded car battery right then and there.

• Hassle-free recycling: We’ll take your old car battery and make sure it’s recycled properly, saving you a trip.

For AAA Members, this service offers exclusive member pricing and the ultimate convenience.

AAA-owned Car Care Centers or AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities

 If you prefer to bring your vehicle to a trusted shop, our network of AAA-owned Car Care Centers and AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities is an excellent choice. These shops meet our high standards for quality, service and reliability.

The benefit of professional installation is significant. Technicians have the right tools and expertise to handle the replacement safely, ensuring your new battery is correctly connected and securely in place. This is especially important for newer vehicles with complex electrical systems.

DIY battery replacement

For those who enjoy hands-on car maintenance, replacing your own battery is a manageable project. You can purchase a new battery from retailers like NAPA Auto Parts, which often carry AAA-branded batteries. Here are some DIY car battery replacement tips. First things first, before you begin, gather your tools and prioritize safety.

Tools and safety:

• Safety glasses and gloves to protect against battery acid.
• Wrenches or a socket set to loosen the terminals and hold-down clamp.

• A wire brush for cleaning corrosion.

• A memory saver, which plugs into your car's power outlet to preserve your radio presets and other settings.

Step-by-step guide:

1. Locate the battery: Pop the hood and find your battery. Note which terminal is positive (+) and which is negative (-). Use painter’s tape or another method to easily identify the terminal cables.
2. Disconnect the old battery: Always disconnect the negative (black) terminal cable first. Then, disconnect the positive (red) cable. This prevents accidental shorting.
3. Remove the battery: Loosen and remove the hold-down clamp that secures the battery in its tray. Carefully lift the old battery out. Remember, the battery is heavy!
4. Clean the area: Use a wire brush to clean any corrosion from the battery tray and cable connectors.
5. Install the new battery: Place the new battery in the tray and secure it with the hold-down clamp.
6. Connect the new battery: Connect the positive (red) cable first, followed by the negative (black) cable. Ensure both are tightened securely.
7. Start Your Car: Turn on your vehicle to make sure everything is working correctly.

Vehicle battery benefits

When you choose a AAA-branded car battery, you are buying more than just a reliable power source to start your engine; you are investing in peace of mind. We design our battery program to provide value well beyond the initial purchase, ensuring you stay on the road with confidence.

Why choose a AAA-branded car battery?

AAA batteries are built to handle tough weather conditions and high vehicle demands. However, the real value lies in the backing you get as a member:

• Nationwide three-year limited full replacement warranty: This is one of the strongest protections available. If your AAA-branded car battery fails within three years of purchase, we will replace it at no cost to you. Because this warranty is nationwide, you are covered whether you are in your own driveway or traveling across the country.

• Member-exclusive pricing: Your AAA Membership card unlocks significant savings. AAA Members receive competitive pricing and exclusive discounts that aren't available to the general public, making top-tier reliability more affordable.

Additional Services Included

We believe in a comprehensive approach to your vehicle's health. When you use our car battery replacement services, you get a complete care package:

• System testing: We don't just swap the battery; we check the health of your entire starting and charging system. This ensures that your alternator and starter are working correctly, so a new battery doesn't get drained by an underlying issue.

• Eco-friendly recycling: Old car batteries contain lead and acid that can be harmful to the environment if mishandled. We take the hassle out of disposal by safely removing and recycling your old battery for you, ensuring it is processed responsibly.

A dead car battery can disrupt your entire day, but replacing it doesn't have to be a hassle. By recognizing the warning signs and understanding your options—whether it’s the convenience of AAA Mobile Car Battery Service, the expertise of a AAA-owned Car Care Center or AAA Approved Auto Repair facility or a DIY project—you can stay ahead of any issues.

With a trusted AAA-branded car battery, you get the added confidence of a nationwide warranty and exclusive member savings. Don’t wait to get stranded; check your battery’s health today and let AAA help you stay powered up and on the move.