Battery Maintenance Tips From Gary Knurek GoodYear
August 2, 2016
When it comes to your vehicle, it all starts with the battery. Proper battery maintenance is important for two reasons:
First, your vehicle won't start or run without it. Second, it is the key to the long life of your auto electrical system. If your battery isn't working efficiently, your alternator has to work overtime to make up for it, and other electrical components can suffer as well.
A number of years ago sealed batteries were introduced to the local Troy, Michigan, market. They were hailed as being 'maintenance-free batteries.' While it is true that you can't get in and adjust the electrolyte levels of a sealed battery, it is by no means maintenance free.
Batteries are very sensitive to changes in the weather around Michigan. Temperature really affects auto battery performance. A battery inspection is an important part of your spring and fall checkups. Next time you're under your hood, take a look at your battery.
- Is it clean and free of residue? A dirty battery will drain.
- Is there corrosion at the terminals where the battery cables attach to the battery? If there is, the corrosion can interfere with how efficiently electricity passes back and forth from the battery.
- Are the cables loose? Make sure they are tight.
- Are the cables themselves corroded? Corrosion can actually eat through the battery cables.
Gary Knurek GoodYear service advisors can inspect and test your battery. If the inspection warrants a cleaning, have it done. If the battery test indicates that replacement of the battery or cables is in order, you will be lucky to have caught the problem before it becomes a major inconvenience.
Your battery will also last longer if you keep your fuel system and ignition system clean. It's all part of your commitment to regular maintenance, to keep your vehicle running on Troy streets at its best for a long, long time.
Gary Knurek GoodYear
1973 Livernois
Troy, Michigan 48083
248-362-0350
Need Service?
More articles from Gary Knurek, Authorized GoodYear Dealer

Catching Trouble Early
October 25, 2026
Your vehicle depends on wheel bearings. Sitting between the wheels hub and axle, they allow your wheels to spin smoothly, bear the vehicles weight and work in harmony to stay aligned with other parts. Wheel bearings can fail in several ways, and they may send the driver some pretty clear clues... More

Start Me Up
October 23, 2026
You have a nice road trip planned out. Youre all packed, sit down in the drivers seat, go to start your vehicle up and Nothing! You might hear a click, but thats it. What do you do now? Your problem may be a bad ignition switch. There are other symptoms you may notice. A failing ignition swi... More

Why is My Vehicle Overheating?
October 11, 2026
When it comes to your vehicle overheating, the signs can be loud and clear when you have a problem. You may see a thermometer-shaped warning light come on or a temperature gauge whose needle is pointing in the red zone. When either of those happen, its important to take quick action to avoid se... More
