Battery testing & replacement

Cold Ottawa winters are brutal on batteries. A battery that started fine at -5°C may fail completely at -25°C. We test battery health and charging output to predict failures before you get stranded. If you need a new battery, we install on the spot with major brands stocked.

Signs you need a new battery

  • Slow cranking when starting
  • Dashboard battery warning light
  • Dim headlights at idle
  • Electrical accessories acting up
  • Battery is over 4-5 years old
  • Visible corrosion on terminals
  • Swollen battery case

Starter motor service

If your engine cranks slowly despite a good battery, makes a clicking sound when you turn the key, or sometimes doesn't crank at all, the starter motor is the likely culprit. We diagnose and replace starters for most makes.

Alternator service

The alternator charges your battery while the engine runs and powers all your electrical systems. A failing alternator means a battery that won't stay charged, dimming lights, electrical glitches, or eventually a no-start situation. We test charging output and replace alternators when needed.

What we test in a charging-system check

  • Battery state of charge and condition (CCA test)
  • Alternator output under load
  • Starter motor current draw
  • Cable and terminal condition
  • Parasitic draw (if you have a battery that drains overnight)

Battery brands we stock

We carry batteries from major OE-grade brands sized for everything from compact cars to heavy-duty trucks, including AGM batteries for vehicles with start-stop systems. Each battery comes with a manufacturer warranty.

Why Tire Plus?

  • Battery testing on request — quick check during any service visit
  • Same-day installation on most batteries
  • Proper electrical diagnostics — sometimes the battery is fine and the alternator is the real problem
  • Recycling included — we dispose of your old battery responsibly
Call 613-834-7325