Car batteries can react badly to cold temperatures. And a cold winter morning is the worst time of all to find out your car won’t start. The good news is that you can take steps today that will help you avoid a dead battery this winter.
Your car’s battery uses a chemical reaction to produce power. The colder the weather, the slower it's chemical reaction. Even new, high-end batteries can quickly degrade in frigid temperatures. If you start with a less-than-perfect battery, cold weather can make it unusable.
You can protect your battery with a few safeguards, including:
- Check the current age and condition of your battery.
- Inspect and remove signs of corrosion.
- Use a battery blanket.
- Turn off accessories when you start the car and when it idles.
Here’s a closer look at each of these items.
Battery age. Do some research on the battery now in your vehicle. How old is it? Any battery between 5 to 10 years of age is a good candidate for replacement before really cold weather strikes.
Corrosion. If your battery is still fairly new, do a thorough inspection. Do you see signs of corrosion? If so, clean off the residue. Check to be sure your battery is properly seated in its slot.
If you’re not sure about the condition of the battery, bring it into an auto repair shop like Wiygul Automotive Clinic. A trained mechanic can check the condition of the battery and its replacement. He can also make sure it is in good working condition and able to survive a cold winter.
Battery Blanket. In some areas, a battery blanket is a good idea. It’s easy to use and requires just a regular wall outlet for power. You fit it around the exterior of the battery and under the cover. Then plug it in and it produces enough heat to prevent the battery fluid from freezing.
Limit accessories. When you start your car at the beginning of a trip, turn off your radio, heat and other accessories. The same is true when your car is idling. These accessories pull power from the alternator, which can stop the battery from charging.
Let the Experts Care for Your Battery
Not sure about battery maintenance and winterizing? You can take your car into the Wiygul Automotive Clinic to have a trained mechanic do a thorough inspection. He can check the age and power of the battery, clean away corrosion, and find the source of the problem.
If you need a new battery, he will help you choose the best one for your needs and your budget, then install it. Wiygul is known for its competitive pricing and high-quality products.
For a free, no-obligation quote for battery help this winter, call the experts at Wiygul Automotive Clinic. You can find a Wiygul location closest to you by visiting our website.
