Low Temps, Slow Start
Omaha has recently enjoyed seasonally mild temperatures, but historically, the city is no stranger to the sub-zero range in winter. Frigid weather can make life difficult for many reasons. One of the biggest is getting your car started on bitter mornings.
Just like you before your morning coffee, your car is sluggish after sitting overnight and “cold soaking.” This is because the fluids that keep your car running get cold and therefore slow.
First and foremost, your car needs a battery to start. Car batteries get their energy from a chemical reaction, which slows down in the cold, according to Popular Mechanics. Batteries can lose up to half of their power in below-zero temps, making turning the engine over difficult.
Oil and gas also run slow in the cold, adding to the difficulty your battery experiences.
Preventing battery freeze
A few tips will keep your car starting no matter how low the thermometer goes.
- Professional checkup – Get your car battery and electrical system checked by a professional before the throes of winter. Maintain the connections and check them periodically.
- Get your car out of the wind – On especially cold nights, try to get your car out of the cold. If you don’t have the luxury of a garage, try parking it away from the blowing wind, or putting a cover on.
- Charge up – Consider using a battery charger to maintain it and keep it in good condition. Fully charged batteries freeze at lower temperatures.
The cold weather takes its toll on everyone and everything. Don’t let it keep you from starting your car.
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