Don’t Let The Cold Winter Weather Kill Your Car’s Battery?
What Happens to Car Batteries in the Winter?
While modern automobiles are more reliable than ever, certain components are more vulnerable than others. Batteries rank among the most susceptible to cold weather conditions. So, what happens to car batteries in the winter? Basically, cold temperatures interrupt the chemical reaction the battery uses to produce electricity, causing any of several potential problems. The expert team at the Cambridge Honda Service Department put together some information that could help you avoid being stuck in the cold.
READ MORE: Check Out Our Service Specials
Prevent a Car Battery From Dying in the Cold
Even with all the other technology packed into your vehicle, none of it is very useful if the battery doesn’t have the juice to get everything running. When the temperatures start to dip, there are a few things you can do to prevent the cold from killing the battery.
- Keep the car, truck or SUV parked inside if possible
- Clean corrosion off the terminals
- Attach a trickle charger if the vehicle isn’t driven often
- Regularly drive the vehicle for at least 30 minutes
How Do You Know If a Battery Needs to be Replaced?
It is rather rare for an automotive battery to spontaneously stop working. When a battery begins to reach the end of its lifecycle, a few signs will become evident. If you notice any of the following signs, make an appointment with the Cambridge Centre Honda Service Department as soon as possible.
- Interior lights appear dimmer than usual
- The vehicle struggles to start
- Overall performance is reduced
Additionally, running accessories like the heater can put a strain on a struggling battery, hastening battery failure.
Don’t let yourself be caught out in the cold this winter season. If it’s been a while since anyone has run a test on your car’s battery, make an appointment with Cambridge Centre Honda today.
