Skip to Main Content

Car Battery Maintenance Tips


While car batteries inevitably need to be replaced, there are a few ways to maintain your battery’s longevity.

Kimberly Olson
April 30, 2026
A battery is replaced part of a maintenance tip

Here’s a quick guide to help keep your vehicle battery in tip-top shape:


  1. Drive Your Car Weekly
    Keep the battery juiced, and be sure to take some longer rides. If you must park your vehicle for a long time, use a trickle charger to help extend battery life.
  2. Keep It in the Garage
    Park your car in the garage to protect your battery from cold winds, ice, and snow.
  3. Use an Engine Block
    An engine block heater can help stave off winter’s chill and keep your car’s engine, battery, and motor oil warm. This will help your car start more easily in cold weather.
  4. Clean Battery Terminals
    Keep your battery terminals corrosion-free. If the battery’s two connectors get corroded, have them cleaned up.

AAA Membership plans include 24/7 roadside assistance, no matter whose car you’re in.

AAA Members also get hotel discounts, discounted trip planning services, and more. Plans start at less than $6 per month. Membership is charged annually.

Explore AAA Membership Plans

Suspect a failing battery? AAA Members can request roadside assistance to have their battery tested and replaced.1

Learn more about AAA Membership.
Explore Roadside Plans
1 Battery replacement not available in all locations. May not be available for all vehicles.
Content on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as official recommendations or advice from AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah.