With historic winter weather hitting the south, now is a smart time to make sure your vehicle's battery is in good shape and get ahead of surprise winter weather. Freezing temperatures can be tough on batteries, especially older ones that may already be losing capacity. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a car that won't start when you need it most.
Batteries can fail more easily in the winter for a few key reasons:
- Reduced capacity due to age and wear means the battery holds less of a charge
- Frigid temperatures slow the chemical reactions inside the battery needed to provide power
- Power-draining electrical loads are higher in the winter from using the heater, defroster, lights, etc.
So how can you avoid becoming stranded by a dead battery when temps fall well below the norm? A few warning signs to watch for that may indicate a weak battery include slow cranking when starting, dimming headlights, and a swollen or bloated battery case. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's best to have your battery tested by a professional. Don't wait until it's too late - schedule your car battery service today at Key Acura of Gainesville.
