If you live in any area of the country where the temperature routinely drops below freezing, you’ll want to make sure you have a car battery that can stand up to the colder weather.
There is nothing worse than getting stuck with a dead vehicle after a long day of work, or in the middle of running errands, so its important to take the necessary precautions to keep your car battery running this winter season.
Check The Date
If you can’t remember when the last time you had your car battery replaced, that’s probably a pretty solid indication that it’s been a while. Some car batteries can last up to 6 years before needing to be replaced, however, this timeline can vary.
Depending on when you last changed it, it would be smart to get it tested soon to avoid getting stuck in the cold. Many auto mechanic shops will test your battery free of charge to ensure it is strong enough to power through the subzero temperatures.
Be Prepared
Keeping a booster pack (like a miniature battery to jump from) and jumper cables in your car will guarantee you won’t have to worry about starting it if it does die. Jump starting your car battery is a way to restart its life to get you to where you need to go.
It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so consider how you will feel when you’re stuck on the side of a snowy highway at eight o’clock at night. To avoid this completely preventable roadside emergency, investing in these battery essentials before disaster strikes is a smart idea.
Choose The Right Battery
If your local mechanic warns you that your battery is running at less-than-full power, then you should buy a new one. Batteries were made to match their cars, so if you’re running on a spare battery not meant for your vehicle, odds are it isn’t going to carry the right juice to get you through extreme temperatures this year. If you are unsure which battery is right for your car, your mechanic can lead you in the right direction
Remember: extreme heat or cold can increase your battery rate of discharge, making wintertime a real threat to the life of the battery.
It’s also important to remember to get other aspects of your car inspected outside of your battery. Ensuring your brakes, tires and heating unit is in tip-top shape will also help you fight this winter weather.
It’s also crucial that you continue to get your oil changed regularly — which includes using oil with the right viscosity for the colder weather. Be safe this winter: be a responsible car owner.
