Need A Car Battery Replacement Before Winter?
Why does it always seem like your car battery dies in the winter time? Does it really happen more often or is it just our perception that it does?
Is Cold Weather a Killer?
Cold weather in and of itself is not necessarily a death knell for a car battery. That being said, in freezing temperatures an engine requires twice as much power to start and a battery could lose up to 60% of its stored power.
For a fully, powered newer battery, this should be no problem. However, for a battery that has some age on it or one that is constantly taxed with the use of accessories like iPods, cell phones, and tablets, it can be a real struggle to start a vehicle in colder temperatures.
How Long Should a Car Battery Last For your Vehicle?
Years ago you did not have to worry about car battery replacement for about 5 years. With today's additional strain on car batteries, that lifespan has dropped to about 3 years.
Battery Checkup
If you are uncertain of the condition of your battery, it is definitely worth your time to ask your mechanic to check its function. The terminals should be cleaned and free of corrosion. They also should be checked to make sure of good connections and tightness. Any broken or compromised cables should be replaced.
A battery that is at the end of its lifespan or weakened for any reason is more likely to completely fail during the colder months. It is better to be safe than sorry as the saying goes. It's cheaper to pay for a new car battery replacement than a tow plus a battery. Never mind the inconvenience and potential dangers of being stranded somewhere in the extreme cold.
Anxious about a car battery issue? Consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
Why does it always seem like your car battery dies in the winter time? Does it really happen more often or is it just our perception that it does?
Is Cold Weather a Killer?
Cold weather in and of itself is not necessarily a death knell for a car battery. That being said, in freezing temperatures an engine requires twice as much power to start and a battery could lose up to 60% of its stored power.
For a fully, powered newer battery, this should be no problem. However, for a battery that has some age on it or one that is constantly taxed with the use of accessories like iPods, cell phones, and tablets, it can be a real struggle to start a vehicle in colder temperatures.
How Long Should a Car Battery Last For your Vehicle?
Years ago you did not have to worry about car battery replacement for about 5 years. With today's additional strain on car batteries, that lifespan has dropped to about 3 years.
Battery Checkup
If you are uncertain of the condition of your battery, it is definitely worth your time to ask your mechanic to check its function. The terminals should be cleaned and free of corrosion. They also should be checked to make sure of good connections and tightness. Any broken or compromised cables should be replaced.
A battery that is at the end of its lifespan or weakened for any reason is more likely to completely fail during the colder months. It is better to be safe than sorry as the saying goes. It's cheaper to pay for a new car battery replacement than a tow plus a battery. Never mind the inconvenience and potential dangers of being stranded somewhere in the extreme cold.
Anxious about a car battery issue? Consult our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about car battery replacement and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
