TOWSON, MD (June 18, 2018) – AAA Mid-Atlantic is expecting a sharp rise in call volume today with the rise in temperatures. For the first time this season, car batteries will be tested by the extreme heat and there will likely be an increase in tire troubles as well.

“Today’s high temperatures will bring a wave of calls from motorists whose batteries are vulnerable,” says Ragina Cooper Averella, manager of Public and Government Affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic. “And, in this heat, drivers and their passengers will be vulnerable as well so it is critical that everyone prepare accordingly.” 

AAA Mid-Atlantic is reminding everyone to make sure they have a fully stocked summer emergency kit (see below) and a fully charged cellphone so they can call for help should they need it. 

AAA Mid-Atlantic offers these TIPS to avoid heat-related car troubles:

1.Test your battery and, if necessary, replace it BEFORE it dies

Most batteries last 3-5 years and each day of extreme weather pushes a battery closer to its end. 

AAA members can request a AAA Roadside Service technician to come to them and test their battery free of charge. Should the battery need replacement, the technician can usually replace it on location. For more information on the AAA Mobile Battery Service visit AAA.com/Battery. Complimentary battery checks are available at all of AAA Mid-Atlantic's Car Care Insurance Travel Centers. Visit www.AAA.com/Locations to find a nearby store. 

2. Make sure tires are properly inflated

Driving on under-inflated tires can cause tires to overheat and increase the likelihood of a blowout. This problem becomes even more of a concern when road temperatures are extremely high.

Tires should be checked when the car has not been driven recently, and they should be inflated to the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer – not the number molded into the tire sidewall.

Recommended tire pressures can be found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker normally located on the driver’s door jamb or the inside of the glove compartment door. Some vehicles use different pressures for the front and rear tires. 

While checking the tire pressures - including the spare - drivers also should inspect the tire treads for adequate depth and any signs of uneven wear that might indicate a suspension or alignment problem.  

3. Check all fluids

When fluid levels are low, the possibility of overheating increases. Drivers should check all vehicle fluids including motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid to ensure they are filled to the appropriate levels.

If any fluids need to be topped off, be sure to use the type of fluid specified in the owner’s manual. 

4. Stock a summer emergency kit 

Even with proper preventive maintenance, summer breakdowns can still occur, so AAA recommends every driver have a fully charged cellphone on hand so they can call for help when needed and also keep a well-stocked emergency kit in their vehicle to ensure everyone’s safety while they’re waiting for help to arrive.

The emergency kit should include water, non-perishable food items, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, road flares or an emergency beacon, basic hand tools, and a first aid kit.

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Mailing Address:
8600 LaSalle Road, Ste 639
Towson, MD 21286

AAA provides automotive, travel and insurance services to 58 million members nationwide and more than 975,000 members in Maryland.  AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years.  The not-for-profit, fully tax-paying member organization works on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android.  For more information, visit AAA.com.