"If I only knew sooner." We've all been there before. Fortunately, there are various indications and symptoms that your battery may need replacement:

1. Slow Engine Crank: When you attempt to start the vehicle, the cranking of the engine is sluggish and takes longer than normal to start. You'd best describe it as the "rur rur rur" starting noise sound.
2. Check Engine Light: The check engine light sometimes appears when your battery power is weak. Strange system indicator lights–such as check engine and low coolant lights–could mean there's a problem with your battery. (It could also just mean you need more coolant).
3. Low Battery fluid level: Car batteries typically have a part of the casing that's translucent so you can always keep an eye on your battery's fluid level. You can also inspect it by removing the red and black caps if they are not sealed (most modern car batteries now permanently seal these parts).
   • Bottom line: If the fluid level is below the lead plates (energy conductor) inside, it's time to have the battery and charging system tested. When fluid levels drop, it's typically caused by overcharging (heat).
4. The swelling, bloating battery case: If your battery casing looks like it ate a very large meal, this could indicate a battery gone bad. You can blame excessive heat for causing your battery case to swell, decreasing your battery life.
5. Eww, there's a stinky, rotten egg smell: You may notice a pungent, rotten egg smell (sulfur odor) around the battery. The cause: Battery leaks. Leaking also causes the corrosion around the posts (where the + and - cable connections are located.) The gunk may need to be removed or your car may not start.
6. Three years + battery age is considered an old timer: Your battery can last well beyond three years but, at the very least, have its current condition inspected on a yearly basis when it reaches the three year mark. Battery life cycles range from three-to-five years depending on the battery. However, driving habits, weather and frequent short trips (under 20 minutes) can drastically shorten the actual life of your car battery.

Be safe. Have your battery tested.

Save with special deals on new battery installations.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get a free online Battery Price Quote

Warning: Do not, under any circumstance, attempt to connect loose wires. Unless you are a certified technician, leave the dangerous stuff to us. If you mishandle the wiring, it's very easy to short out expensive computer components and put yourself in harm's way.

We'll set your battery wires straight. Schedule battery maintenance today.

Believe it or not, today's vehicles have various methods for jump starting car batteries. It's no longer just a simple "connect this cable here and that one there," scenario.

Please refer to your owner's manual for instructions relating to jump starting your specific vehicle. Many vehicles have crucial steps that must be followed precisely so you can protect your electrical system and have a successful jump.

If you're still experiencing issues with your battery, stop in to any of our locations for a battery test, and we'll get your car back up and running in no time.

Oh, you know, to avoid explosions and what not. Bet you didn't think a dead battery could create that, huh?

Typically, when a person jump starts a car, sparks can occur. That's why it is recommended that you connect the negative jumper cable to the vehicle body and not the negative post of the battery. This is so you can avoid sparks from occurring near the battery where flammable hydrogen gas may be present, resulting in a possible explosion.

Quick Tip:

• Never connect the black cable to the negative (–) terminal on your dead battery. This is very dangerous, could result in a possible explosion.
• Make sure you follow the instructions in your owner's manual when jump starting your vehicle. Every car is different. Trust us. We're experts.

Battery's can do a lot of things while we're not looking. The most common way a battery will drain overnight is by leaving a light on or a power adapter plugged in, zapping all your battery power while you're fast asleep.

Your battery can also drain overnight if there are faulty electrical components or wiring. If this might be the case, let us check it out so we can resolve the problem and get you rolling again.

Schedule a Battery Inspection. Enter your Zip Code for nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get a free online Battery Price Quote.

Take advantage of our current deals and specials on battery replacements.

A faulty electrical system is, unfortunately, a pretty significant indicator that your battery is on its last gasps and/or not receiving a charge from your alternator.

If you are having electrical problems, we urge you to stop in to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care store ASAP. Not only could it save you the hassle of dealing with a dead battery and a tow truck, but doing so could also help you avoid having to replace other expensive parts associated with your electrical system.

Schedule an electrical system check and a free battery test.

Test your car battery life with our Virtual Battery Tester.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get a free online Battery Price Quote.

This question touches on one of the greatest wonders of the world. Unfortunately, the starter doesn't like to provide many warnings–if any–before it fails. Talk about stubborn. Don't fret though, there is a silver lining. If your car is currently running (that's a good start), we'll perform an electrical system check and find the source of the problem as fast as possible so we can get your car roaring again.

Whether your starter is finished or still kicking, our techs will test for:

• The power drainer: Excessive current drawing from your starter will indicate a worn starter. Unfortunately the only course of action is to install a new starter.
• "You've almost got it. C'mon." A low current draw indicates corroded cables or faulty connections. We can fix this, so your starter is functional again.
• That noise. Starters are noisy sometimes. Or, they grind. It could also kick out loudly, turn the motor or turn nothing at all. The result? Erratic operation and a starter that has problem engaging the flywheel (what gets the engine turning).

We have the right solution no matter your starter's current condition. Schedule an Electrical System Check.

You bet. If you have a weak ankle, you tend to overcompensate and put more weight–and stress–on the healthy ankle. Same concept with a weak battery. When you have a weak battery, your car ends up putting additional stress on healthy parts. The charging system, starter motor or starter solenoid can be affected.

These parts can malfunction because they're drawing excessive voltage to compensate for the lack of battery power. Leave this problem unresolved, and you could wind up replacing expensive electrical parts–typically without warning.

Quick Tip: Our Electrical System Check makes sure all the necessary parts are drawing the correct voltage. We'll know right away if there's any weak parts that may need immediate replacement. Don't leave your car's power to chance, you may end up paying for it later.

Schedule an Electrical System Check today. Enter your zip code for the store nearest you.

Take advantage of our current deals and specials on battery replacements.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price, right now.

Let's just say we're clairvoyant.

All joking aside, let's start with the obvious symptoms:

• The electrical system is possessed. Strange flickering lights or warning lights such as 'Check Engine' flicker, disappear, and then reappear again. All these malfunctions usually start occurring when the car battery is nearly drained and struggling to provide power. If the alternator is faulty, your battery will no longer receive a charge and is moments away from being totally kaput.
• The Slow Crank. You're starting your car, and it keeps turning and turning, eventually starting–or not. This could mean your alternator isn't charging your battery properly. If you start experiencing the possessed electrical system as well, please stop in to the nearest service facility. Your car could be moments away from a dead battery and alternator.

Let's review: All the above happens when the battery is not receiving a charge (due to a faulty alternator). Your battery will continue to drain. When it drains completely...well, we all know what happens next: curbed car. And neither you, nor us, want you to go through that.

Quick tip: The sooner we can inspect your vehicle, the less likely you'll face every drivers' biggest fear–a car that won't start. Drive with peace of mind.

Schedule your Electrical System Check today. Enter your zip code to find the store closest to you.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get a free online Battery Price Quote.

Three parts make or break your ability to start your vehicle: the alternator, the starter, and, of course, the car battery.

Here's the scoop on powering your coupe...(or sedan or sports car or SUV):

• The ignition point: When you turn the ignition, your battery supplies power to the starter. The starter then delivers the power to the various parts that get your engine roaring to life.
• Keep the juice flowing: In order to keep that engine rolling, your alternator must be going. The alternator is the only way your car battery charges. If your alternator isn't functioning, you'll know right away. Lights on your dash will flicker. Your engine will start sputtering. Ultimately, your battery will drain completely leaving you stranded on the side of the road…and nobody wants that.

React. Recharge. Rejoice: Stop in for a Complete Electrical System Check. We'll give you a read out on your alternator, starter and car battery and tell you about any warning signs that may require immediate attention.

Learn more about starters.

Learn more about alternators.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get a free online Battery Price Quote.

Add 'er' to the last word in your question and you've answered your own question. The starter starts your engine. Here's what's happening in those few seconds. Blink, and you'll miss it.

When you turn the ignition, a small supply of power travels from your battery to the starter and other electrical components. The starter then rotates the flywheel, which turns the crankshaft, setting the engine's pistons into motion. Your car is started. Now shift out of park and get going. But remember, without a functioning starter there's really no start to your journey.

Quick Fact: Until your vehicle starts, your battery is providing the car's entire electrical current; this includes the current to the ignition and fuel systems, which are responsible for creating the combustion necessary for your engine to function.

Have car questions? We have all the answers, contact your nearest store.

Take advantage of our current deals and specials on battery replacements.

You know when your battery charges? Well, you can thank your alternator. Simply put, the alternator generates power to recharge your battery while controlling the voltage for the entire electrical system.

Here are the crucial roles the alternator plays:

• Puts the charge in your battery's recharge: As you're cruising along, your alternator is hard at work generating the power that is constantly recharging your battery.
• It's alive! It's alive!: The alternator is the source for all the operating current for your electrical system.
• The undisputed workhorse: The alternator is arguably the most crucial component to keeping your battery fully charged, your electrical system running properly and your car powered. Without the alternator, well, we wouldn't get very far.

Concerns with your alternator or car battery? We have solutions. Locate your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care store.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get a free online Battery Price Quote.

Follow these tips and get more (+) and less (-) from the life of your battery and electrical system

Tip 1: Lights off / Accessories unplugged. All it takes is one light left on overnight or an accessory plugged in while your car is off and guess what? Your battery is dead before you know it. If it's too late, make sure you have jumper cables on hand, or better yet, a self-powering car battery jumper in your trunk.

Tip 2: 'Just say no' to short trip after short trip. Your battery requires time to charge. If you take frequent short trips, this can result in inconsistent charge levels and/or a drained battery.

Tip 3: Failure is not an option. Always have a qualified professional inspecting your electrical systems. We offer a full Electrical System Check and have certified ASE technicians on staff.

Schedule an Electrical System Check.

Take advantage of our current deals and specials on battery replacements.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get a free online Battery Price Quote.

You bet. Just ask for one during any car maintenance and we'll give your battery the ultimate performance test with our Early Detection Analyzer. In return, you'll receive the peace of mind knowing how much life is left in your battery or whether a replacement is recommended. We'll also provide you with ways to improve your battery life should it be in "good" working condition. Learn more about our 'Early Detection Analyzer'.

If you'd like to get a head start, you can gauge your battery's life now with our online Virtual Battery Tester.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get a free online Battery Price Quote.

Remember Virtual Reality? Well, it's not that. Our Virtual Battery Tester estimates how much longer the car battery in your specific make and model will last. Though this is just an estimate and not an exact figure (driving conditions and other factors shorten battery life), it's a good way to put you in the know about the possible condition of the battery you are currently using.

The Virtual Battery Tester requires the month and year your battery was manufactured. Unsure which year your battery was manufactured? Here's a quick trick: Most battery manufacturers stamp a month and date code on the top of your battery. Use the guide below to determine the date on yours.

Time for a new battery? Discover the right Interstate Battery at the right price for your car–right now. Use our free online Battery Quote Finder.

We're not Indy Car Pit Crew fast, but if your car battery is easily accessible we'll get you cruising again in short time. However, if your car manufacturer buries the car battery under other parts, or if it's in a tricky location, it can take an additional amount of time. Time to install will vary. Your best bet is to schedule an appointment beforehand to ensure the most time efficient battery installation. When scheduling, our technician may be able to give you a more specific installation time for your particular vehicle.

Discover the right Interstate Battery at the right price for your car–right now. Use our free online Battery Quote Finder.

Take advantage of our current deals and specials on battery replacements.

Do chickens lay eggs? Our mission is to provide you with the most reliable information so you can make the best decision. And that includes the price of your car battery. Our Battery Price Quote allows you to input your specific make, model and year of your auto. Within seconds we'll provide you with the exact Interstate Battery that is right for your car, at the right price. No hoops or hurdles. Just print out your quote and schedule an installation.

Discover the right Interstate Battery at the right price for your car–right now. Use our free online Battery Quote Finder.

Take advantage of our current deals and specials on battery replacements.

At Firestone Complete Auto Care, the best offense so happens to be the best defense. We'll help keep your vehicle running newer, longer by providing you with complete electrical system maintenance and replacement options.

Our Corrosion Protection Package, Battery Terminal Cleaning Service, and Electrical System Check stop problems before they become huge problems. Quality replacement parts, like Interstate Batteries, can help bring new life to your existing electrical system.

Learn more about our Preventive Services.

Enter your zip code to schedule an appointment today.

Yes, we do, but it depends on the vehicle. Typically, car battery installations are $15 and include the following:

• Visually inspect condition of battery cables and the ends that hold them down, as well as the bolts and battery tray.
• A bridging (power) device is used to ensure power to your vehicle's memory is maintained during installation.
• Remove and dispose old battery.
• Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) check on your new battery:
• If OCV is below 12.5 volts, we'll charge the new battery before installation.
• If OCV is 12.5 volts or higher, the new battery is ready for installation.
• Install anti-corrosion pads on positive and negative battery cable ends.
• Spray battery cable ends with anti-corrosion spray.

Every new battery receives the same quality assurance and installation at Firestone Complete Auto Care. Schedule an installation.

Price out the Interstate Battery designed for your specific vehicle now! Free online Battery Price Quote.

In short, it's an awesome way to find the Interstate Battery designed for your specific vehicle at the right price, right here on our website. All you have to do is enter your vehicle make and model, and we'll display the Interstate Battery for your ride and how much it's going to cost. Just print out and bring your battery quote to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care.

Vehicle not listed? Some vehicles have a unique battery case size. If you don't see a battery listed for your vehicle, contact your local Firestone Complete Auto Care, we'd be happy to get your vehicle's required battery. We can typically have one the same day from one of our local affiliated suppliers. These custom batteries will typically cost a little more than the standard size car battery.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price–right now. Get your free online Battery Price Quote.

Schedule a Battery Installation.

Discover our battery specials happening now.

Well, just about everything needed to keep your car running newer, longer.

Our technicians provide a holistic approach when inspecting and testing your car's electrical system. If we didn't, we'd miss something. And that's unacceptable.

• We check your entire electrical system so we can fully diagnosis and fix any potential problems before they occur.
• The more you know about the performance of your electrical system, the better prepared you'll be in avoiding problems down the line. Problems gone. Electrical failure averted.

Curbed vehicle? Not a chance. We curb the problem before a no start occurs.
Schedule an Electrical System Check today.

Take advantage of our current battery specials.

We make sure that all discarded automotive batteries are delivered back to its battery manufacturer for safe recycling. Automotive batteries contain sulfuric acid and lead, so it is very important to have them recycled properly. We'll accept your discarded automotive battery at no charge while making sure it is handled and recycled safely. Automotive batteries have the highest recycling rate for any commodity that we are aware of.

Recycle today. Find your nearest Firestone Complete Auto Care

Take advantage of our current deals and specials on battery replacements.

When you have the right equipment, you'll discover all the right answers. Every Firestone Complete Auto Care store has specialized equipment that tests and diagnoses any and all issues relating to your alternator. If there's a problem, we'll solve it–and fix it.

Don't delay. Schedule your Electrical System Check today. Enter your zip code to find nearest store.

It's not brain surgery, but it's definitely one of the more complex jobs performed today. Every vehicle has a unique makeup, so accessing the alternator—as well as the electrical system it's hooked up to varies. Trust us, we wish there was a universal wait time. If you want to know the expected service time for your ride, please contact your local Firestone Complete Auto Care store. One of our senior technicians will provide you with the typical repair time for your vehicle.

Schedule an appointment today.

The earlier we can detect a potential car battery problem, the earlier we can prevent it from causing you future headaches. Anytime you bring your vehicle in for maintenance, tires or other repairs we can test the condition of your battery.

The Early Detection Analyzer determines if your battery is supplying adequate power and at what temperature it could potentially fail. We'll hand you a printout with one of three possible results:

1. A "Good" result gives you the confidence that your vehicle's battery is functioning properly.
2. A "Marginal" result indicates that your battery is functioning properly, but its life expectancy is compromised. We encourage you to closely monitor your battery with more frequent battery checkups.
3. A "Replace" test result indicates that the battery, despite it starting your engine, fails to meet the original equipment manufacturers' recommendations. To avoid the inevitable 'no start', a fresh new battery will put all your worries aside.

Schedule a battery test at your Firestone Complete Auto Care today.

Discover our battery specials happening now.

Find the right Interstate Battery for your specific vehicle, at the right price — right now. Get your free online Battery Price Quote.

Acronyms can sure sound fancy, but what these two stand for are quality assurance.

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) ASE is the industry standard and the most trusted certification process in the automotive repair industry. There are over 50 individualized tests depending on automotive specialty. Here at Firestone Complete Auto Care, we employ over 5,000 ASE certified technicians—the most in the industry. When you bring your car in for a battery repair, rest easy knowing a trusted battery technician is inspecting your car.

Motorist Assurance Program (MAP) MAP is the consumer outreach program implemented by the Automotive Maintenance and Repair Association, Inc. (AMRA). MAP is a nationally recognized quality assurance program with participation by the industry's leading retailers, suppliers, independent repair facilities and vehicle manufacturers.