“Check that the cable connections are tight, clean, and free of corrosion, which often looks like fuzzy, green and white buildup,” Crossen says. (If you don’t want to do this yourself, ask your mechanic.) Periodic testing can also tell you when the battery is due for replacement before it completely fails. “Test it twice a year at a minimum,” Crossen says.
Expert tip: Many shops test the battery when cars come in for service, so check your paperwork for a slip with the inspection results.
