A strong battery is the key to trouble free driving.

Your car's battery tends to be one of those things you just don't think about until one day, you turn the key in the ignition and hear the strained groans of the starter? then the clicks... and then nothing... dead battery.

Contrary to popular belief, it's actually not usually cold weather that kills off your battery. Actually, excessive summer heat and overcharging caused by a faulty component in the charging system (such as your regulator) are two of the main culprits that can damage a battery's internal workings. When this happens, the battery becomes weaker over time and tends to show its true colors when cold weather hits. Engine oil thickens up in the winter, making the engine harder to crank. So if you're battery is not in tip-top shape, you may be in for an unpleasant surprise.

There are a few things you can do to ward off problems with your battery.

• Have your battery checked once a year, especially if it is more than two years old. A qualified technician will perform a battery load test to determine the strength and condition of your battery and make sure your charging system is working properly.
  
• Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt is a conductor and can drain power.
  
• Regularly check your battery's terminals for corrosion and the cable connections to make sure they are tight. If you find corrosion, use a simple mixture of baking soda and water to clean it off.