You can’t afford to deal with car issues in a bustling place like New York City. But if your car battery dies, you’ll be stranded and stuck on the road. As a result, you’ll block other people from reaching their destinations. And if your car battery is dead, there’s not much you can do about it.
We have you covered. Read on to discover smart ways to handle a dead battery if you’re in NYC.
1. Make Sure You’re Safe
Your first order of business should be ensuring that you are safe if you’re stuck on a New York City street. If you can navigate your car to the side of the road, do so to minimize traffic disruptions. But if you can’t, at least turn on your hazard lights so other urban commuters won’t hit it. Ensure your car is in park to prevent it from moving unexpectedly, and activate the parking brake as an added security measure.
Check the battery if it is safe to do so. Specifically, check the battery terminals, which consist of metal extensions connected to cables. If they look loose or dirty, that could be the source of the problem. They may be corroded if you notice a greenish coating. Or, if the battery connection is visibly loose, it’s worth trying to secure the connection. Be careful to avoid leaning over the battery, and take caution if you notice any sparks. You may be able to start the car and drive it somewhere a professional can check it more thoroughly.
2. Jump Start Your Car
Do you have an emergency kit in your car? If you have access to a portable jump starter, you may be able to start your car again. These convenient devices can fit in your trunk, and it’s easy to connect your battery posts to the clamps. Best of all, you won’t need to depend on another vehicle to help. Just be sure to confirm that your jump starter is charged. Otherwise, it won’t work.
If your battery keeps dying after a jump-start, replacement is usually the safest long-term solution. While many drivers head to a local auto shop, others prefer to research options online first to understand pricing, brands, and specifications. Browsing quality car batteries at great value can help you compare features and choose the right battery for your vehicle before deciding where to purchase or install it.
3. Reach Out to Roadside Assistance
When you’re not able to restart the battery or get help from a friendly driver, you’ll need extra help. That means contacting roadside assistance services. They can come to you and either jump the battery or swap out the old one for a new one. Some auto parts shops will test it for free before showing you replacement battery options.
4. Choose a Replacement Battery That Fits Your Car
Don’t just consider the price when hunting for a new battery. Opt for a battery that fits the size and power needs of your car. And look for one that will last through NYC’s volatile climate conditions. Batteries should be able to last through hot summers and cold winters. You can check a prospective battery’s warranty terms. And you should check the Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) number to ensure you’re choosing a durable battery that offers enough power when the temperatures plummet.
Make sure your old battery is recycled properly, too. The acid and lead within batteries can harm the environment, so batteries shouldn’t be put in the trash. Verify that the shop where you buy your new battery will recycle it.
Deal with a Dead Battery
Dealing with a dead battery can feel stressful and frustrating. But when you take the right steps, you can limit disruptions and get your car up and running again. Try jump-starting your car or reach out to roadside assistance for help. When you stay calm and seek a new battery properly sized for your car, you’ll be able to move forward.
