As the temperature drops, I’ve noticed more and more dead cars on the road. Cars are hood to hood with jumper cables attached, hoping to start before hands freeze. There is nothing worse than waking up in the morning and the temperature outside reads 1 degree; then you go outside and try to start your car with no luck. Why is it that my car battery dies at the WORST possible time? Well, you aren’t alone. The cold weather is very tough on your car battery, and here’s why.

Why Does My Car Battery Die In Cold Weather?

As you Winterize your car, you must never forget to check your car battery. The fact of the matter is that your car battery will last maybe 5 years. However, newer cars have more electronics that are running all the time, and extreme weather changes shorten the life of your battery to about 3 years. According to AAA, “at 0°F, a car’s battery loses about 60 percent of its strength and at 32°F it loses 35 percent.” Which means that in cold temperatures you are already losing strength and starting up your car requires more battery strength than in normal conditions; your engine is cold, your oil is cold, and you use more electronics like heat, defrost, and heated seats (let’s be honest now, that’s the best feature the car industry could have ever created).  All of these extras require more oomph, and if your car battery is old, cracked, or not charged completely, you will walk out to a dead car in a snowstorm.

What To Do?

Well, if your car battery is legit dead, obviously you need to try to jump it to get it running. You are going to need a friend with a well-powered car to help you do this, and if you don’t know how, refer to my article here . Two things are going to happen; your car will either start or it won’t. If you can get it to fire off, you need to make sure you drive it at least 30 minutes to charge the battery. Remember, it is cold and your entire car is working extra to keep you (and itself) warm. Now, depending on your battery life and how old it is, this could keep happening. Which is never fun. So, make sure you check your battery year and voltage before the winter cold hits ( be VERY careful! Your battery could have cracked and acid can leak out when checking the voltage ). Side note: I believe almost every auto store will check your car battery for free if you bring it in. 

If your car does not start up, you are out of luck and need to replace your battery. Take it out and find your local auto store to help you find a new one and to get rid of the old. With a new battery, you shouldn’t have any issues starting your car in the winter.

Warning Signs To Look For As Your Car Battery Dies.

Usually, your car will give you a heads up before killing over. Pay attention to the warning signs below so you are prepared.

  1. Know how old your battery is. Keep a schedule or mark the date on the battery when you bought it. Like I said, with cars and their electronics these days, you should get around 5 years out of your battery. If you live in very cold or hot climates, this could drop to around 3 years.
  2. Dashboard battery warning light is on.
  3. Your car engine cranks a tad more slowly than normal.
  4. Your headlights and dome lights are not as bright.
  5. Electronics start to sound or act funny.
  6. Your c ar horn sounds unusual.
  7. Your battery case looks cracked. Which is a big warning sign and could also mean that your actual battery has cracked. Be careful taking the battery out and make sure you tell your auto store so acid doesn’t leak everywhere. I’ve had this happen to me and the acid burnt a HOLE through my sweater. Luckily, no one was harmed.

I always stress the importance of knowing your car inside and out to help keep you safe and your wallet happy. Knowing what you are smelling, hearing, seeing, and feeling could all be warning signs. For more on this, check out my article “ Quick Guide To Popular Car Problems & How To Fix It!

Take care of your car and it will take care of you . #motorwithconfidence

Shop The Blog

Share

You might also like

By Kurt Brown 18 Apr, 2024
Shielding Your Financial Well-being in the Wake of an Auto Accident
By Robin Etchison 26 Feb, 2024
Decoding the Meaning: 'You Can Eat Off That Engine' For those entrenched in the exuberant world of classic cars, few phrases evoke as vivid a picture as "You can eat off that engine." It's not merely about a pristine shine; it's a testament to an ethos, a culture, and a craftsmanship revered within the domain of vintage automobiles. This article is a deep dive into the significance of this saying, unwrapping the layers of meaning that define it and examining how it’s much more than just a colloquial praise. The Essence of Pristine Engine Bays To the uninitiated, the remark might sound bizarre and somewhat excessive. After all, engines are functional, not culinary. However, to enthusiasts, the invite to dine on a classic car's engine represents so much more than a display of hygiene. It signifies a level of immaculacy that can often rival a surgeon's operating table. The prestigious designation 'parade clean,' a step above show-quality cleaning standards, is a befitting label for such an engine. It is prepared with microscopic precision and gravitational detail, telling a story of its own – that of the car’s history, care, and exclusive pride. The admiration for a spotless engine bay is a nod to the vehicle's history, painting a picture of the care and precision that may have been part of its manufacturing process. It also reflects the owner's commitment to preservation, signaling to the onlooker that every aspect of this vintage machine, seen and unseen, is revered and well-maintained. Metaphor to Machine The suggestive act of dining off an engine involves recognising the diligence involved in its maintenance. The precision exhibited in creating the engine and its components, the devotion to maintaining and restoring it, and the systematic approach to its upkeep mirrors that of a chef orchestrating a fine culinary display. It serves as an avenue for enthusiasts to draw a parallel between culinary art and the meticulous care that classic car engines receive, reinforcing the idea that these machines are works of art. An Artisan's Playground Restoration and maintenance of classic car engines are deeply rooted in respect for heritage and the appreciation of engineering excellence. This commitment to preservation often sees enthusiasts investing hundreds—if not thousands—of hours into refurbishing an engine to its former glory. Every nut and bolt is scrutinized, every surface polished, every component tested and retested to ensure that the engine doesn’t just look good but carries the same spirit and power it did when it left the production line. The process is arduous and requires mechanical expertise, patience, and a genuine love for the craft. And just as an artist wouldn't allow a single stroke to mar the perfection of his painting, so does an automotive enthusiast strive to ensure each engine component reflects the same standard of excellence. Reflecting in Practicality: Maintaining a Classic’s Engine When preservation meets practicality, the advice on engine maintenance is consistent and clear—cleanliness is key. Dirt, grime, or dust may seem utterly harmless initially, but when infiltrating the inner sanctum of a classic car’s engine, they can cause catastrophic effects over time. Corrosion and contamination can lead to mechanical failures, which in turn can result in extensive and expensive damages that require spares and could potentially devalue the vehicle. The rigorous engine cleaning and maintenance process is a religious practice that keeps the engines not just operable but, more importantly, looking as good as the day they were assembled. And in the world of vintage vehicles, appearances carry weight—proportionally on the scale of pride and price alike. The Restoration Ritual For devotees who have embarked on the magnificent yet daunting journey of restoring a classic, the engine serves as the heart and soul of the project. It is often the first component to receive attention, not only due to its mechanical centrality but also the symbolic importance it holds. Restorers invest not only effort but a part of themselves in the rebirth of these vintage engines. The transformation from a worn, historical artifact to a pristine piece on display reflects the passage of time, the evolution of technology, and the timeless beauty of engineering. It’s akin to the story of a phoenix rising from the ashes, only in this case, it's an engine, polished and prepped, ready to sing once more on the open road. Engaging the Community The well-known saying ignites conversations within the automotive community, sharing stories of engine restorations, tips on maintaining the perfect shine, and the personal fulfillment of owning and presenting an immaculate classic car. Dialogue around this phrase opens the floor for personal testimonials, expertise exchange, and a celebration of craftsmanship. Classic car shows offer a platform for these discussions, with enthusiasts often lingering around engines that glisten like mirrors, eager to discuss the labor of love that went into their preservation. The community is a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of history, friendship, and shared passion. Shining in Personalization The remark touches on the personalization and individuality that vintage car owners strive for. A car that has been meticulously cared for and tailored to the owner's desired specifications reflects the character and standards of the individual and stands as a unique piece of automotive heritage. In this case, the engine stands as a centrepiece, a showpiece, and a testament to the owner's narrative and their tribute to the vehicle's legacy. Conclusion The essence of the saying transcends its literal explanation, embodying respect, precision, history, and pride within the automotive world. It paints a picture of owners and enthusiasts who have taken an oath to preserve the tapestry of the past, one gleaming engine at a time. Hence, for the aficionados, the saying "You can eat off that engine" is more than a compliment; it’s a way of life, a marker of values, and a standard that embodies the artistry found in the veins of classic cars and the hearts of those who love them. Mechanics on Wheelz is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap for enthusiasts seeking to embody the mantra of maintaining an engine so pristine it gleams. With a team of skilled professionals who come directly to you, Mechanics on Wheelz offers the convenience and expertise to customize and restore your cherished classic cars to your exact specifications. Whether it's returning a vehicle to its original splendor or infusing it with a modern twist, their dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail ensures that your automotive dreams become a reality. In the classic car restoration world, Mechanics on Wheelz stands out as a mobile service that brings passion, precision, and personalization to your driveway. #VintageVibes,#vintagecarcollector, #antiqueauto, #ClassicCars, #historicwheels,#autoheritage #oldschoolcool #RetroRides #TimelessMotors, collectiblecars,#mobilemechanic
By Robin Etchison 21 Feb, 2024
Top Most Common Car Problems and Issues Every Car Owner Should Be Aware Of!
Show More

Book a Service Today

Share by: