There is no enemy like the Tucson sun. While winters are mild, our summers are brutal on vehicle components, especially your car battery. The extreme heat causes the fluid inside the battery to evaporate, damaging its internal structure. This is why batteries that last 5-6 years in other states often die in less than 3 years in Arizona.
WARNING SIGNS TO WATCH FOR
- Slow Engine Crank: If your car sounds sluggish when you turn the key, the battery is weak.
- Corrosion on Terminals: White or blue powder on the battery posts indicates leaking acid and a bad connection.
- The "Clicking" Sound: A rapid clicking noise when you try to start means the starter isn't getting enough power.
- Dim Lights: If your headlights are dim but brighten when you rev the engine, your battery is near total failure.
- Physical Swelling: Heat can literally cause the battery case to bloat or swell.
- The 2-Year Rule: In Tucson, most batteries only survive 2 to 3 years. If yours is older, a jump start emergency is likely in your future.
To keep your battery healthy, try to park in shaded areas like the University of Arizona parking garages or under carports. Regularly check your terminals for white, crusty buildup and keep them clean to ensure a solid connection.