Choosing a Car Battery

There are a few steps you should follow when you're buying a new battery for your car:

1. Size: The battery needs to fit your car's battery tray.
2. Ratings: The cold cranking amps rating signifies the vehicle's ability to work in colder temperatures. If you live in a cold climate, go for a battery with a higher cold cranking amps rating; in a warmer climate, this rating isn't as important. The reserve capacity rating indicates the vehicle's ability to operate should the fan belt or alternator fail. The higher the rating, the longer the operating time, but consult your owner's manual to find out how much your particular vehicle can handle.
3. Brand: Don't try to save money by buying an inexpensive brand -- and then run the risk of being stranded if it dies on you.

You can avoid some of the pitfalls of car ownership -- and some expensive repairs -- by sticking to a preventive maintenance schedule. Do-it-yourself maintenance can't replace your vehicle's recommended service, and some jobs are best left to professionals unless your skills are advanced. But you can take care of some simple yet important tasks yourself. Disclaimer