Dead Battery? Steve Comes to You.
Car will not start? Steve brings the right battery for your vehicle, tests the charging system, and gets you going. No tow truck needed.
Battery Replacement Without the Hassle
A dead battery is one of the most frustrating car problems because it leaves you completely stuck. You cannot drive to a shop. You either call a tow truck or call someone who can come to you.
Steve comes to wherever the car is, whether that is your driveway, a parking lot, or the side of the road. He brings a battery tester, a load tester for the charging system, and a selection of batteries that cover most common vehicles. In most cases he can replace the battery on the spot in 20 to 30 minutes.
He also tests the alternator and charging system while he is there. A new battery will not last if the alternator is not charging it properly. Steve checks both so you are not back in the same situation two weeks later.
Do Not Wait Until You Are Stranded
Slow Cranking
If the engine turns over slowly when you start it, especially on cold mornings, the battery is losing capacity. It may still start today, but it is telling you it is on the way out.
Needs a Jump Start
If you have needed a jump start once, the battery may have just been drained. If it has happened twice in a short period, the battery is not holding a charge and needs to be replaced.
Battery Warning Light
The battery light on the dashboard can indicate a failing battery, a bad alternator, or a loose connection. It should not be ignored. Steve can test all three and tell you what is actually wrong.
Electrical Issues
Dim headlights, flickering interior lights, or electronics behaving strangely can all point to a battery that is not delivering consistent voltage. These symptoms often show up before a complete failure.
Battery Over 4 Years Old
Most car batteries last 3 to 5 years. In the heat of Inland Southern California, they often fail on the shorter end of that range. If your battery is approaching 4 years, it is worth having it tested before it leaves you stranded.
Swollen Battery Case
A battery case that looks bloated or swollen has been overcharged or exposed to excessive heat. This is a sign of a failing battery and potentially a problem with the charging system. Replace it soon.
Battery Replacement FAQ
Steve carries a selection of batteries for common vehicles. In most cases he will have the right one. For less common vehicles or specialty batteries, he may need to source it first. When you call, tell him your year, make, and model and he will let you know.
On some vehicles, disconnecting the battery can reset the radio presets, power window positions, and other stored settings. On modern vehicles it can also reset the throttle body and require a relearn procedure. Steve is aware of these issues and handles them as part of the job.
Steve tests the battery and charging system before recommending a replacement. If the battery tests good but the alternator is failing, he will tell you that. You will not pay for a new battery you do not need.
Yes. Many newer vehicles use AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries for stop-start systems. These require a specific battery type and sometimes a registration procedure to tell the car's computer a new battery was installed. Steve handles this correctly.