Will the cold make my vehicle’s battery flat?
As you pile into the car on a cold winter morning, you probably don’t give the vehicle’s battery a second thought. Should you?
When you start the ignition and the car splutters a couple of times before roaring to life, it might cross your mind. Of course, there could be a few reasons for your vehicle being a little sluggish on a winter morning, or it may just be the cold taking a toll on your battery.
RAA Approved Repairer Manager Simon Halford says the cooler weather can diminish the battery’s ability to provide sufficient power.
“We might not see the temperature here in South Australia dropping below zero very often, but the cold can still have an impact on your vehicle’s battery,” Simon says.
“This is because a typical battery contains lead plates in electrolyte liquid, which create a chemical reaction that produces a charge to the battery terminals.
“Heat can speed up this reaction, while cold temperatures can slow it down.”
Don’t worry though – a fully charged battery can survive temperatures below zero.
Extending your battery’s life
You don’t have to wrap your battery in a scarf or place a hot-water bottle on it during those cold nights, but there are a few ways to extend its life.
If possible, park your car in a garage or under cover to keep it out of the cold and protected from other elements.
When checking oil levels under the bonnet, it’s also worth giving the battery and the terminals a quick wipe to prevent any dirt to build up. Bad connections can sap the battery’s power.
Make sure your mechanic also cleans the battery terminals when your car is being serviced to keep the connection in good condition.
Warning signs
Is your car battery more than three years old? It might start showing signs it’s on its way out. Maybe when you start the ignition, the engine is cranking slowly, or your vehicle may display warning signs and the stop/start function is not working.
If your car is becoming sluggish to start and the battery is on the older side, it might be time to consider a replacement. After all, you don’t want to get stranded.