Frigid cold causes dead car batteries for dozens of Western New Yorkers

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Western New York felt the deep freeze Wednesday as temperatures dipped into the negatives, leaving dozens of residents’ car batteries dead.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that two-thirds of all drivers in America have never proactively had their car battery tested before. This week’s frigid temperatures led to a major increase in calls reporting dead batteries.

AAA normally offers free battery testing at home or its garages, but today, lead roadside technician in Western New York Christian Tabak said they were so busy with battery service, AAA couldn’t offer that service.

Tabak said the calls just kept on coming Wednesday. He showed up at 7 a.m., took a quick lunch break and was back on the snow-covered streets until 7 p.m., totaling 12 hours in the freezing wind.

“Key goal is absolutely dressing for this weather. We know as the technicians out here that we are going to be out in the weather,” Tabak said. “So, we are prepared, and we are dressed for it. AAA provides us the gear and they treat us well.”

It is a task Tabak said residents really appreciate.

“It’s a good feeling to be able to successfully do things and in a positive manner, so it’s definitely a fulfilling feeling when the people are satisfied with what you have done,” he said.

Tabak offered some tips for this winter: Be aware if your car cranks slowly when starting. Listen for grinding sounds or watch for dim headlights when idling. This is a sure sign your car may not start the next time you turn the key.

If you do have to head out, make sure you check your car’s battery before and only be out for as long as you have to.

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Dillon Morello is a reporter from Pittsburgh who has been part of the News 4 team since September of 2023. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.

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