Have you ever accidentally left the lights on in your vehicle? We all know the feeling, when we get into our vehicles to discover something was accidentally left on. "Please start!", we pray. Your vehicle's battery primarily helps to start the engine. It also stores energy generated by the alternator and runs the secondary electrical systems such as your lights, radio, power seats, power windows, and additional electrical components in your vehicle. Obviously, your battery is an essential part of your vehicle, if you like to listen to your iPod or charge your phone while traveling. To help you take care of your battery, we advise the following:

• Clean and remove corrosion and add anti corrosive protection
• Tighten loose hold-down clamps and terminals
• Test battery condition
• Check the alternator belt tension and wear

The two biggest reasons for a dead or low car battery are:

• Leaving your lights on
• Not maintaining your battery properly

Your batteries are rechargeable, and it's always a good idea to carry jumper cables in your vehicle in case of emergencies. You never know when you may need to jump start your vehicle, or even help out another driver in need. Once your battery is worn out, recycle it! Battery recycling can reduce the resources required for manufacturing new batteries. When you recycle your batteries, you can also divert toxic lead from landfills or improper disposal. Come in today for all of your battery care needs.

We can help you choose the right battery for your vehicle and lifestyle. Our staff can safely and professionally install your battery and get you back on the road.

Your car's electrical system powers everything from the ignition and fuel systems to accessories such as your radio, headlights and wipers. The electrical system is, in turn, powered by the engine. Here are the three key components of the electrical system:

Battery

• When your car's engine is off, the battery provides the required power to the rest of the system, as well as during start-up (cranking). It also supplements the power from the charging system during periods of high demand.

Charging System

• This is the heart of the electrical system. It consists of three main components: the belt-driven alternator, various electrical circuits, and a voltage regulator. The alternator supplies power to the electrical system and recharges the battery after your car has started. Just like it sounds, the voltage regulator controls the voltage, keeping it within the operating range of the electrical system.

Starting System

• This system consumes more electrical power than any other in your car. The starting system consists of three components which work in tandem: the ignition switch, the starter relay or solenoid, and the starter motor. The ignition switch controls the starter solenoid, which activates the starter motor. The starter motor then turns the engine until your car starts.