Winter in Canada can be brutal, and your car battery is one of the most vulnerable components when temperatures drop. Cold weather reduces a battery’s capacity to hold a charge, increases the strain on its performance, and makes starting your car more difficult. To avoid getting stranded on a freezing morning, it’s essential to take proactive steps to maintain your car battery during the winter months.
At Bender’s Auto Sales, we’ve been helping drivers in Listowel and beyond keep their vehicles running smoothly for over 70 years. Here’s our expert guide to ensuring your car battery is ready to handle the cold weather.
Why Cold Weather Affects Car Batteries
When temperatures dip below freezing, the chemical reactions inside your battery slow down, reducing its ability to deliver power. A battery that performs perfectly in summer might lose over 30% of its strength when the thermometer reads 0°C—and over 50% at -18°C. Add to this the increased demand for power from heating systems, headlights, and other accessories, and it’s easy to see why many car batteries fail in winter.
Signs Your Battery Needs Attention
Before we dive into maintenance tips, it’s important to recognize when your battery may already be struggling:
- Slow Engine Crank: Your car takes longer to start or makes unusual sounds when cranking.
- Dim Headlights: Lights appear weaker than usual, especially when starting the car.
- Battery Warning Light: This indicator on your dashboard could signal a problem.
- Age of the Battery: If your battery is over three years old, it may struggle more in the cold.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action.
1. Get Your Battery Tested
A professional battery test is the best way to check its health before winter fully sets in. At Bender’s Auto Sales, we offer quick and reliable battery testing services to determine if your battery can handle the cold. A test will measure the voltage, capacity, and overall condition, giving you peace of mind or letting you know if it’s time for a replacement.
2. Clean Battery Terminals
Corroded battery terminals can interfere with the flow of electricity, making it harder for your battery to power your car. To clean the terminals:
- Turn off the engine and wear gloves for safety.
- Use a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub away corrosion with a small brush.
- Rinse with water and dry thoroughly before reconnecting.
You can also apply a terminal protectant spray to prevent future corrosion.
3. Check the Battery’s Charge
Keeping your battery fully charged is crucial during winter. If you’re driving short distances frequently, your battery may not have enough time to recharge. Consider taking a longer drive every week or investing in a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep it topped up.
4. Inspect the Alternator
Your battery relies on the alternator to stay charged, so it’s essential to ensure the alternator is functioning correctly. If your battery frequently loses charge despite regular driving, the alternator could be the issue. Bring your car to Bender’s Auto Sales, and we’ll inspect the alternator to rule out any problems.
5. Park in a Garage or Use a Battery Blanket
Whenever possible, park your car in a garage to protect it from extreme cold. If a garage isn’t available, consider using a battery blanket—a specialized insulating cover that wraps around the battery to keep it warm. This simple step can make a significant difference in your battery’s performance.
6. Minimize Power Usage Before Starting
Before starting your car, turn off non-essential accessories like the radio, heater, or headlights. Starting your engine requires a lot of power, so reducing the load on your battery can help it focus solely on the ignition process.
7. Replace an Old or Weak Battery
No amount of maintenance can save a battery that’s nearing the end of its lifespan. If your battery is more than three to five years old, consider replacing it before winter. At Bender’s Auto Sales, we can help you choose the right battery for your vehicle and install it for optimal performance.
8. Carry an Emergency Jump Starter
Despite your best efforts, there’s always a chance your battery could fail during extreme cold. Carrying a portable jump starter can save you from being stranded. Alternatively, keep a set of jumper cables in your trunk and familiarize yourself with the proper way to jump-start your car.
Stay Powered All Winter Long
A little preparation goes a long way in avoiding winter car troubles. By following these tips and scheduling a battery checkup with Bender’s Auto Sales, you can ensure your vehicle starts reliably, no matter how low the temperature drops.
📞 Contact us: 519-291-3390
📍 Location: 785 Main Street East, Listowel, Ontario
Stop by Bender’s Auto Sales today for all your winter car care needs!