Why Car Batteries Die in Cold Weather, and How to Prevent it In MA

Posted On: Tuesday, March 14, 2023

As winter sets in and temperatures drop, car batteries may suddenly start giving you trouble. It’s a common issue that car owners face, and it’s all because of the cold weather. Cold weather causes car batteries to die, leaving you stranded in the middle of the road, especially in Massachusetts, where winters can be pretty harsh. In this blog, we’ll explore why car batteries die in cold weather, and more importantly, how you can prevent it.

Why Do Car Batteries Die in Cold Weather?

Batteries work by converting chemical energy into electrical energy. Cold weather slows down this process, making it harder for your battery to create the energy your car needs to start. When temperatures drop below freezing, your car battery loses approximately 35% of its power, making it less effective at starting your car. Additionally, the oil in your engine also thickens in cold temperatures, causing more resistance and requiring more power from the battery to get the engine turning.

How To Prevent Car Batteries from Dying in Cold Weather

  1. Get a Battery Checkup: The first step in preventing car battery issues is to have a professional check your battery before winter hits. This checkup will tell you if your battery is in good condition, how much life it has left, and whether it has the capacity to handle cold temperatures.
  2. Keep Your Battery Warm: The warmer your battery, the easier it is for it to produce the energy your car needs to start. Keep your car in a garage or covered area to protect it from the cold.
  3. Turn Off Electrical Accessories: When starting your car, turn off all electrical accessories like the radio, air conditioning, and headlights. These accessories put extra strain on the battery, which can cause it to die more quickly.
  4. Drive Your Car Regularly: When you don’t drive your car for long periods, your battery can lose power. Driving your car regularly keeps the battery charged and prevents it from dying in cold weather.
  5. Invest in a Battery Heater: A battery heater can keep your battery warm, even in cold temperatures. This device attaches to your battery and heats it up, making it easier for it to produce the energy your car needs to start.

 

Car Battery, Starting, and Charging Services in Framingham, MA

Car batteries die in cold weather because of the reduced chemical reaction that generates the electrical charge. To prevent this from happening, you can have your battery checked before winter, keep your battery warm, turn off electrical accessories, drive your car regularly, and invest in a battery heater. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your car battery lasts longer and that you don’t get stranded in the middle of a cold Massachusetts winter. If you’re experiencing issues with your car battery or need a professional checkup, contact the experts at Absolute Car Care for help. Call now for an appointment (508) 820-9323, or use the ‘Quick Contact’ form on our site.