I went out to start my car today, and it erupted with all kinds of noises, none of which were starting noises.
I called AAA at 3:23 p.m. They said someone would be there by 4:26 p.m.
At 3:34 p.m., I got a call from Paul Tufts, battery technician III, telling me he would arrive in about 15 minutes. And he sure did!!
Once the lid was lifted, he smelled something electrical. Oh gads!
Paul tested my battery and found it to have a weak charge. The battery in the car was from AAA, 3 years and 4 months old -- out of warranty.
And Paul performed numerous other tests on the engine to make sure all other things were in good operating order, especially considering the electrical smell he detected. He reminded me to check for that smell in the future, in case something else was off, and give him a call if such was the case.
Paul offered me a discount on a new battery, with a 3-year warranty for what I thought was a good price. Better than what my dealer would offer.
So, I got it. Paul installed it. Had me start the car. THEN he says you need to get your radio code. What's he talking about?
WHAT THE DANG-DEVIL is that???
Evidently, this is a Honda security code you need to enter any time a battery has been removed from the car. Son of a buck!! WHO KNEW!!
Well, Paul knew. And he knew where to look for the security code. He looked on both sides of the glovebox, found nothing, but there was a West County Honda business card in the glovebox that gave that security code. I entered it, and presto-changeo -- we have music. WOWEE!!
Now all I have to do is set the clock, which I don't do well. Any time you have something to do just twice a year -- you don't necessarily do it all that well. I'll save this for another day.
Paul was so knowledgeable, helpful and personable. He KNOWS his business. And I'm glad for that.
I've had AAA for a long time. Luckily, I haven't had to use them all that much. But when you need 'em, YOU NEED 'EM. read more