Nothing is more frustrating than turning your key on a chilly winter morning and… nothing happens. Just complete silence. Your battery has decided it’s had enough.
A dead battery is one of the most common winter vehicle issues in South Africa, and yet many drivers don’t understand why it happens or how to avoid it. Here’s what you need to know to keep your battery healthy through the cold months.
1. Why Cold Weather Influences Your Battery
Cold temperatures slow the chemical reactions inside your battery, lowering its ability to hold and deliver charge. At 0°C, your battery can lose about 35% of its strength — and even more at sub-zero temperatures. If your battery is already a bit old or weak, it might not have enough power to start your car at all.
2. Your Driving Habits Could Make Things Worse
- Short trips to work or school don’t give the alternator enough time to properly recharge the battery.
- Using heaters, headlights, windscreen defrosters, and wipers all at once adds extra strain on your battery.
- Leaving your vehicle outside overnight exposes the battery to freezing temperatures, making it work even harder the next morning.
3. Warning Signs Your Battery Is Struggling
- Slow engine cranking or struggling to start.
- Dim headlights, especially when idling.
- Weird electronic behaviour – like flickering dash lights or slow electric windows.
- If your battery is over 3 years old, it’s considered middle-aged and more prone to failure.
4. How to Prevent a Dead Battery This Winter
These simple tips don’t require a mechanic – just a bit of attention and care:
- Test your battery before winter starts: Many workshops or dealerships offer free battery checks. It only takes a few minutes but could save you hours of hassle.
- Clean the battery terminals: Use a brush and a baking soda mix to remove corrosion that can block electrical flow.
- Park in a garage or under cover: Keeping your car sheltered from extreme cold reduces battery drain.
- Drive longer distances when you can: Give your alternator time to fully recharge the battery, or use a trickle charger if your car sits idle often.
- Turn off all extras before starting: Switch off heaters, lights, and infotainment before ignition to reduce battery strain.
5. When Should You Replace Your Battery?
If your battery is more than 3 years old, winter is the perfect time to consider a replacement — before it lets you down. It’s always better to upgrade it on your own terms than be caught off guard in the cold.
By following these tips, you can extend the life of your car battery and enjoy reliable starts all winter long. Stay prepared, stay warm, and stay on the move.
