We tend to take our vehicle battery for granted. When we start our vehicle, it gives us the power we need to make that happen. When a battery is low or it is dead due to the cold winter weather, it can put you in a challenging position. Don’t wait to face such an ordeal, take proper care of your battery to prevent such problems from leaving you stranded in the freezing temperatures.
Why do some vehicles start easier than others? There are vast differences among vehicle batteries, and that plays a role in it. If you aren’t familiar with what your vehicle battery offers, it is wise to look into it. Identify the brand and other specific information. Next, look up that information online. Search for tips on how to best maintain it for the cold winter months. Such preparations can help you avoid serious problems including your vehicle not starting when it is freezing cold outside.
Maintenance
Some vehicle batteries are maintenance-free so you can’t open them up and check them. If you have an older battery, you will notice a cap on the top of it. You can open that cap to check the level of water in it. If the level is low, add enough distilled water to bring it to the full line. This will help you keep your battery properly charged, especially when winter brings cooler temperatures.
When the level of water in the battery drops, it is harder for the battery to remain charged. When you are driving your vehicle, the alternator will continue to charge the battery. However, there are many variables taking place that can lower the charge of your battery. It is common for the average battery to discharge about 15% of its charging capacity each month.
In colder weather, it takes more of a charge to start your battery than it otherwise would. Consider getting a battery charger and hooking it up before you go to bed. This will ensure your battery has a full charge in the morning when you need to start the vehicle and drive to work. When there is less water in the battery, there is a higher chance it is going to freeze.
Invest in a quality battery charger, one that will automatically stop charging it once it is at full capacity. A cheaply designed product will continue to send power to the battery after it is fully charged. This can damage the battery and reduce the overall life of it. Evaluate the product and verify it is categorised as a smart charger. Read reviews from other consumers too.
Examine your Battery
Before it gets too cold, examine your battery. If you see any signs of corrosion in it, remove that build-up. Check the cables to ensure they aren’t loose. If your battery is older, it may be the right time to replace it with a new one. Consider upgrading to a better battery instead of the regular flooded lead-acid choices out there. They do cost more but they will also start easier in those drastically low temperatures Canada is known for!
AGM is the way to go when you replace your conventional battery. AGM means Absorbent Glass Mat. They don’t freeze so you can rely on it to start your vehicle in below zero temperatures! Make sure the one you buy features adequate cranking amps for the power of your vehicle. This type of vehicle can give you peace of mind your vehicle will continue to start in the freezing cold winters of Canada.