TIPS For Not Getting Stranded With A Dead Car Battery

When a key is placed into an ignition and turned, the car is supposed to start. When it doesn’t, it typically means a dead battery. Although a dead battery is a rather common car ailment, it is always an inconvenience, considering that most people learn the battery is dead when they are in the process of going somewhere, and it can often leave the driver in a dangerous situation.

Recently, I was left stranded with a dead car battery although nothing in the car that works via the battery had been left on. The first option that was tried to deal with the problem was to call a local garage for a jump-start. However, my only phone, a cell phone with a two-year old battery, also died before the call was complete and the phone also refused to recharge.

Next, I allowed an independent, portable sealed battery jump-start kit to charge completely. These kits allow a dead battery to be jump-started without the aid of another vehicle. However, the kit also refused to work.

It was with the aid of two strangers that the battery was restarted and I was provided with the opportunity to get into town, get a new battery, and get a new phone. I still do not know their names or where they’re from, but I am very grateful for them, for their assistance, and for their kindness.

Much was learned during this ordeal, and I hope that some of these tips will help some of you not to ever be caught in this situation.

First, one need not leave on any battery-operated feature such as the dome light or the headlights for a car battery to go dead. Car batteries have life spans, but one cannot predict these life spans by the amount of warranty or the time expectancy advertised on a battery.

Secondly, the power level of a car battery can be checked to determine if the battery is at risk of going dead or simply not having enough battery power to start the vehicle. Some mechanics and most car parts stores will check the power level of a battery for free. This little regular testing could provide both a sense of security and information on when to have a battery changed before one gets stranded.

Third, although we all depend on our cell phones to allow us to call for help if we do get stranded, our level of trust may be too great. Anything with a battery can become inoperable when we need it the most. So, be prepared for any emergency even if you do have a cell phone in which you have faith.

Finally, if we do get stranded, it’s nice to know that there are still decent, wonderful, giving individuals who are willing to lend a hand to a stranger even at times when it may be inconvenient for them to do so and ask for nothing, absolutely nothing, in return.

To whomever those strangers were, thank you. I have learned many lessons from this experience.