In southwest Missouri, the first hard freeze often arrives before drivers think about their battery. A quick test this month can mean the difference between a normal January morning and a car that won't start in the school parking lot. Here's why a cold-weather car battery loses power and how to protect yours.
Does Cold Weather Affect Car Batteries?
According to AAA, a battery loses about 35% of its strength at 32°F and about 60% at 0°F. At the same time, the engine may need up to twice the usual current to start, because cold engine oil thickens and makes the engine harder to turn over. That combination of less power and more demand is why a cold-weather car battery that worked fine in October can fail on the first frigid morning.
How Long Do Car Batteries Last?
AAA also says most last three to five years, with heat wearing them out faster and cooler climates stretching that range. Once a battery reaches its third year, AAA recommends testing it annually. Are you buying a used car for your teen? Ask how old the battery is, since it may already be near the end of that range.
Warning Signs Your Battery Is Weakening
Batteries rarely fail without warning. AAA lists several signs your car battery is dying:
- The engine cranks slowly
- Headlights look dim
- You hear clicking when you turn the key
- The battery or charging warning light comes on
- The battery case looks swollen or smells like rotten eggs
If your car won't start in cold weather on the first try, you've needed a jump-start lately, get the battery checked before temperatures drop further.
Why Get a Load Test in November?
A car battery test in November gives you time to replace a weak battery on your schedule instead of on the side of the road. A load test goes further than a quick voltage check: The technician applies a heavy electrical draw, similar to starting the engine, and measures whether the battery holds its voltage. A battery can read normal at rest yet still fail under that strain on a frigid morning.
How do You Keep Your Battery Alive All Winter?
Good car battery maintenance helps a cold-weather car battery last through February. Start by keeping the cable connections clean and tight and the hold-down hardware secure, since AAA warns that vibration and loose hardware shorten battery life. Next, avoid relying only on short trips, which don't fully recharge the battery, and don't leave the car parked for weeks, because a battery slowly discharges on its own. If you need a replacement, choose one with the cold cranking amps (CCA) rating listed in your owner's manual.
If your car cranks slowly, clicks,cks or needs a jump to start, bring it to Fast Monkey Auto at 2302 Fairlawn Ave. in Carthage, Missouri. Our technicians will run a free load test to see whether your cold-weather car battery can handle winter and check the cables, terminals, and charging system. Parents, it's an easy way to keep your teen from being stranded in January. Call 417-323-0441 to schedule your appointment or use the Book Now link below. We also offer a convenient, secure after-hours drop-off, because after all, we've got your back.