A vehicle's alternator provides electrical power to the vehicle while the engine is on. The alternator also charges a battery during this time. There are a number of factors affecting an alternator's ability to adequately charge a battery. The greatest factors are:

Battery terminals should be cleaned periodically with a mixture of baking soda and water and wire brush if necessary. The terminals should be rinsed with clean water and then can be coated with a commercially available sealant or high temperature grease. 

Interstate's automotive and commercial starting and Marine/RV batteries are considered maintenance-free products under normal operating conditions. However, in the event of an extreme overheat/overcharge situation, the batteries may need to be checked for water loss. To check your battery's water level, we recommend the following:

Your coolant needs to be changed on a regular basis. Don't let your radiator get clogged - you will end up with an engine that can not cool itself causing pricey repairs to your engine and your transmission.

If your wallet feels a little heavier these days, it probably is because you have been spending a lot less at the pump. According to the Car Care Council, if you spend some of that gas savings on auto care, you can save even more in the long run.

“Gas prices are lower than they have been for nearly six years and that means big savings for motorists,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “Add to that a proactive auto care plan and you will not only save more now, but as gas prices start to rise again, you’ll save later. All because you invested in your vehicle to make sure it runs efficiently.”

Drivers Face Longest Streak of Rising Gas Prices in Two Years

(WASHINGTON, March 02, 2015)

U.S. average gas prices have increased 35 days in a row for a total of 39 cents per gallon, which is the longest consecutive streak of rising prices since February 2013. Gas prices are up primarily due to a combination of rising crude oil costs, refinery maintenance and unplanned production problems.

Today’s national average price of gas is $2.43 per gallon. The national average increased about 13 cents per gallon during the past week, which is the largest one-week jump since July 2013. Despite recent increases, the national average remains about $1.03 per gallon less than a year ago.