A record number of Canadians have been working from home this year, which means there are fewer people on the roads.
Less driving combined with the cold winter weather can wreak havoc on your car battery. That’s why we want to make sure you know what steps to take so you aren’t left out in the cold. Here’s how to care for your car battery in winter.
1. Test it if it’s old
The average battery lasts about three to five years. If the one in your vehicle is older than that, you may want to come in for a free battery test at one of our Prairie Battery locations. Car batteries often die without warning. Even if your battery got you through the fall, it may fail in winter when temperatures are much colder.
2. Keep things clean
Your car battery requires maintenance just like everything else on your vehicle. A buildup of dirt, grime and debris can interfere with your battery’s connections and prevent the flow of electricity. Taking the time to maintain your battery’s terminals will help extend its life.
To clean the battery, turn off the engine and disconnect any cables connected to it. Use a solution made of baking soda and water and an old toothbrush to carefully scrub the battery clean.
3. Maintain a charge
The best way to keep your battery charged is to regularly drive your car. If you don’t plan on doing much driving this winter, you should keep your battery charged using a battery charger or maintainer. They’re fairly inexpensive and the small investment is worth the added peace of mind of knowing your car will always start.
4. Stay sheltered
In winter, it’s a good idea to park your car inside a garage or somewhere that’s sheltered. The weaker and older your battery is, the warmer it needs to be. Keeping your car protected from the elements will help preserve the battery’s charge. If you can’t park your vehicle somewhere warm in winter, you can invest in an electric battery blanket to provide some added protection.
The Battery Experts You Can Count On
Prairie Battery Is your one-stop-shop for all things battery-related. We carry a variety of brands and can advise you on which products will work best for your specific make and model of car. For over 20 years, we’ve served Edmonton, Regina, Winnipeg and Brandon.
Get in touch with us today for reliable battery testing, replacements and advice.