Cold-Weather Battery Maintenance and Tips

Alberta recently experienced a polar vortex, pushing temperatures to a bone-chilling -40 degrees in a dramatic cold snap. This deep freeze not only tested the resilience of our vehicles but emphasized the critical role of regular battery maintenance. In this blog, we'll break down how extreme cold affects batteries and share a few tips on winterizing your battery to ensure its reliability in the face of freezing conditions.

Understanding the Impact of Cold on Batteries: Cold temperatures can significantly affect battery performance. The chemical reactions within a battery slow down in the cold, reducing its overall capacity and making it harder for it to deliver the necessary power. Additionally, extremely low temperatures can cause a battery to freeze, leading to damage.

Our Tips for Cold-Weather Battery Maintenance:

• Invest in a Quality Battery: Begin by choosing a battery designed for cold climates and backed by a strong warranty. Motorcraft offers a 36-month, unlimited kms, free replacement warranty on ALL of their batteries.

Special Note: look for options with a higher cold cranking amp (CCA) rating, as this indicates the battery's ability to start in cold weather.

• Keep It Warm: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a sheltered, heated area. This helps maintain a moderate temperature and prevents the battery from being exposed to extreme cold for extended periods. If you don't have a heated area for your vehicle, parking it facing away from the blowing wind and remember to always plug in your block heater when temps dip below -15 Celsius.

• Battery Blankets and Insulation: Consider using battery blankets or insulation to shield your batteries from the cold. These accessories help retain heat and protect against freezing, bettering the chances of your vehicle starting for you. You can find these and more battery accessories in our parts department, talk to our parts team today for details and pricing! Give the team a call at 780-542-7990 or email parts@draytonvalleyford.com

• Regular Maintenance Checks: Stay ahead of these battery symptoms with routine battery checks. Inspect for signs of corrosion, ensure proper connections, and measure the battery's voltage regularly. These services are standard at our Quick Lane Tire and Auto Centre with your routine maintenance and will be included with your multi-point inspection. Address any issues promptly to prevent cold-related breakdowns.

• Emergency Preparedness: Equip yourself with a set of jumper cables or a portable jump starter. In extreme cold, having these tools on hand can be a lifesaver if your battery unexpectedly gives in.

Along with jumper cables, having a proper Emergency Roadside Kit in your vehicle always is important. Learn about what important items you should include by reading this blog.

As we navigate the winter months, taking proactive steps to winterize our power becomes essential. The recent cold snap in Alberta serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges brought on by extreme temperatures. By following these strategies for cold-weather battery maintenance, you'll ensure that your batteries remain resilient, reliable, and ready to power through the coldest of days. Stay warm, stay prepared, and keep your vehicle running smoothly all season long.

Additionally, for those in and around Drayton Valley, don't forget about our hassle-free battery boosting service priced at just $49.99. If you find yourself stranded in the cold with a vehicle that won't start, give us a call during business hours, and we'll promptly send someone to boost your vehicle, ensuring you get back on the road with minimal disruption. It's our way of helping you navigate the winter with confidence.