Be Prepared When Lower Temps Affect Cars And Batteries

Since temperatures hit the freezing mark last week, AAA Oklahoma has been working around the clock. Last week, AAA responded to nearly 2,000 stranded motorists who turned the key and got nothing.

AAA Oklahoma spokesperson Leslie Gamble says, "Especially as we get into these lower temperatures, the time of year when there's more demand on your battery, we expect to turn the key and it starts, but the day will come when that doesn't happen." She adds when temperatures drop, a failed battery is a real possibility that oftentimes drivers don't plan for, but should.

The average car battery last only 3-5 years. At 32 degrees, a battery is 35 percent weaker. As it gets colder, your battery is compromised even further. At 0 degrees, a battery loses 60 percent of its strength. And unfortunately, plugging in your cellphone or GPS can drain your battery even faster.

AAA Oklahoma recommends placing a winter emergency kit in your car. More than 40 percent of motorists do not carry an emergency kit. Emergency kits generally include de-icer, a shovel, an ice scraper, warning flare or bright triangle, flashlight with fresh batteries, first aid kit, jumper cables, and sand or kitty litter.