AAA Charges Ahead in Solving One of America's Most Common Roadside Emergencies This Summer

ORLANDO, Fla.--May 2, 20053, 2005--Just in time for this year's busy summer travel season, AAA, the nation's leader in providing roadside assistance, would like to remind motorists about an innovative service that will help them stay on track and beat the heat.

During the summer months of June, July, and August, AAA expects more than 7.4 million motorists will call to request a tow, fuel, assistance with a flat tire or lockout, or a battery boost or replacement.

During the heat of summer, AAA typically manages more than 1.3 million requests for battery services alone. This significant number represents roughly 17 percent of AAA's total summer call volume.

"In the past, when a member's vehicle left them stranded due to battery failure, AAA would send a tow truck to their rescue," says Margaret Pittelkow, AAA's Managing Director of Emergency Road Service. "Now," adds Pittelkow, "members living in most metropolitan areas within the United States can choose to have AAA replace their vehicle's battery at the scene of disablement, or a simple battery boost can be provided to get them on their way."

Summer travelers looking to beat the heat are encouraged to pay extra close attention to their car's batteries. Before embarking on a summer family road trip, AAA suggests that motorists properly inspect their vehicles and have any required routine services performed by an automotive repair professional. Visit http://www.aaa.com to obtain a list of AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities in your area.

Here are a few helpful tips to help prolong the life of your battery:

-- The lifespan of the average vehicle battery is 3 to 5 years. Once your battery gets into this age range, have it tested prior to any long journey.

-- Have the charging system tested at the same time as your battery. Under or overcharging can damage the battery and may leave you stranded.

-- Remember to turn off the headlights and other electrical power draws when you shut down your engine. Completely discharging a battery will shorten its life.

-- Always replace a bad battery with a new one that has a Cold Cranking Amperage (CCA) rating equal to, or higher than, that of the original equipment battery.

-- Make sure your battery's terminals are kept clean and free of corrosion, and ensure that the battery cables are unfrayed and in good condition.

As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 47 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.