Does Cold Weather Mean A Dead Battery? It Does Not Have To!

Let’s face it, cars aren’t fans of lower temps. Frigid weather can affect your battery’s effectiveness to the point where your car won’t start.

REASONS YOUR CAR WON’T START IN THE COLD

Waking up on a cold morning only to discover that your car won’t start can ruin your day. Chances are a dead battery is the culprit. But there are other reasons too. Here’s a list of common causes and how to prevent them:

Dead Battery

It’s the number one reason your engine won’t turn over in the cold. When the temperature drops to 0º F, your battery loses almost half of its potential power. If your car battery dies in cold weather, use a portable jumper or a battery charger to give it a boost. Cleaning corrosion from the battery terminals with a wire brush can also help maximize power during a jump.

Installing a battery blanket can prevent power loss in extreme cold. If your battery is over 3 years old, consider replacing it with one that has a high Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating to endure freezing temps.

Thick Motor Oil

Cold weather thickens your engine's vital fluids, including motor oil, making the battery work harder. Switching to a full synthetic motor oil can help, as it performs better in lower temperatures than conventional oils. Always use the oil viscosity recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer—check your owner’s manual to be sure.

To prevent oil from thickening, keep your engine warm by parking in a garage or using an in-the-block heater in extreme climates. Massapequa Auto Body can help you with an oil and filter change to ensure your car is ready for winter.

Defective Starter or Alternator

On cold days, weak or worn starter motor brushes may not draw enough power from an already weakened battery to start the engine. If your car doesn’t start after a jump and you hear a “click, click, click,” the starter may need to be replaced.

Your alternator, which powers electrical components and charges the battery while you drive, can also fail in cold weather. Signs of a failing alternator include dim headlights, grinding noises from the engine, or the smell of burning rubber. If this happens, bring your car to Massapequa Auto Body for inspection and repair.

Our team can perform an alternator voltage output test or a starter motor diagnostic to ensure everything is working as it should. To extend the life of these components, reduce the strain on your battery by turning off unnecessary electrical accessories until the engine warms up.

PRACTICE PREVENTION

Understanding how cold weather impacts your vehicle helps you stay prepared for winter's challenges. Winterizing your car is the best way to avoid being stranded. At Massapequa Auto Body, we’ll test your battery, starting and charging systems, and recommend the best service options to keep your car performing in the cold.

Stay ahead of the freeze—trust the experts at Massapequa Auto Body!