As the temperatures drop, your car battery has to work even harder. Not only does it need to get a cold engine going, but it needs to demist and de-ice windscreens and keep passengers warm. What’s more, the chemical reactions in the battery slow down as temperatures drop, so your battery is less efficient at storing energy. This can be a significant issue on short trips, where a lot of energy goes into starting and warming your car, but there is not enough driving time to replace that energy.
It's not all bad news: there are a few things that you can do to make your battery last longer and work more efficiently, even in the winter months.
Check your battery
The first tip is a no-brainer. Before it gets really cold, check your car battery’s health. Look for signs of corrosion on the terminals, as this can slow down the flow of electricity. Use a stiff brush to clean any buildup with a mixture of baking soda and water and make sure that you dry it thoroughly. Make sure the battery connections are tight to prevent power loss.
If you can, check the battery’s voltage. A fully charged car battery should read around 12.6 volts when the engine is off. If you are unable to check the voltage, pop to your local garage to help. If the voltage is consistently below 12.4 volts, it might be time to recharge or replace the battery.
Make regular trips
Car batteries recharge while the engine runs, so regular use is essential in cold weather. Short trips may not allow the alternator enough time to replenish the battery, especially when other electrical systems like heaters and lights are in use. Aim for at least a 20-minute drive to ensure adequate charging; if this is not possible, use a trickle charger to get enough power back into your battery when it is not in use.
Think about the power you are using
When starting your car in cold temperatures, avoid unnecessary strain on the battery. Turn off non-essential electrical systems such as the radio, seat heaters, and interior lights before starting the engine. Once the car is running, allow the alternator some time to recharge the battery before switching these features back on.
If possible, park your car somewhere sheltered to help protect the battery from extreme cold and reduce the energy required to start the engine.
Use a battery blanket
Yes, they exist! Just as we like to snuggle under a warm blanket, your car battery appreciates an extra layer, too. These insulated wraps are powered by your vehicle’s electrical system and keep the battery warm. This can improve the battery’s performance in freezing conditions.
If you are unsure about your battery condition, get it checked out by a mechanic. For more tips, follow Trust A Garage on Facebook or Twitter.