Few things can be more frustrating than jumping into the driver’s seat on a frosty morning, turning the key in the ignition and failing to hear the engine roar to life. Frigid weather can cause trouble with a car’s battery.
Cold temperatures wreak havoc on batteries because they slow the chemical reaction inside of the battery.
While batteries can function under myriad conditions, the cold weather tends to degrade high-quality batteries and may render subpar batteries useless.
A battery that is frozen will not hold a charge, and, as a result, the car won’t start.
There are various ways to protect a battery from failure in the cold, and some of them involve taking precautionary measures even before the arrival of cold weather.
– Assess the age of your battery. If your battery is old, now may be the time to replace it. Batteries differ in how long they last, but many last anywhere from five to 10 years. It’s important to buy the correct battery for the make of your car
– Verify that there is no corrosion. Corrosion can prevent a car from starting just as much as a worn-out battery. Corrosion is caused by a faulty connection that allows battery acid to escape and corrode surrounding areas. Regularly inspect the battery to keep abreast of issues that may cause corrosion.
– Install a battery blanket. A battery blanket is used to wrap around the battery and fit inside of the battery cover. A cord with a plug runs from the blanket to a wall outlet. The blanket can produce enough heat to keep the battery fluid from freezing.
– Minimize the use of automotive accessories. Do not start the car with the heater and the radio on. They can use up the power coming from the car’s alternator and prevent the battery from charging. Do not leave the heat and the radio on while the car is idling.
– Disconnect the battery. If your car will be stored in a garage for the winter, disconnect the battery.
Cold weather can sometimes wreak havoc on vehicles. Knowing how to skirt trouble with your car’s battery can keep your car on the road throughout the winter.
