To Start or Not to Start
As crazy as it seems, weather and air temperatures can have an effect car batteries and cold weather. A car battery is the first piece in the chain of parts that allows the engine to run. But how does it all work? In this blog, we’ll take a look at the relationship between Car Batteries and Cold weather.
It All Starts with the Battery
The battery’s main job is starting the engine. Once the engine is running, it turns an alternator to provide power to the vehicle’s electrical systems. It also feeds electricity back into the battery where it’s stored for the next engine start. However when the engine is cold or is left outside in the cold winter air, it’s harder to start. Low temperatures cause the car battery to produce less electricity, making it harder for the engine to turn over.
The cold can also stop your engine oil from flowing like it should, putting even more strain on the battery. When the temperature is at 0, the battery has 60% less power. However, the car needs 210% more power to start. To combat the problem of less electricity, car batteries have a Cold Cranking Amp rating. The rating refers to the number of amps a 12-volt battery can deliver at 0°F for 30 seconds. While doing this, it maintains a voltage of at least 7.2 volts per cell. The higher the CCA rating, the greater the starting power in the battery.
Picking the Right Battery
People own cars in all types of climates where temperatures reach record highs and frigid lows. All of these cars need a battery to run. A car in northern Canada might need a battery with more CCAs than a car in southern Florida. For an average-size car, compact SUV, or light truck in our area is about 560 to 780 CCAs.
To learn more about selecting the right battery for your vehicle, visit the experts at Clarios and autobatteries.com. There you can learn more about your car, battery technology, jump starting and more!
Start Your Engines, and Understand What to Do if Your Engine Doesn’t
Once you find the right battery for your car, you’ll be good to go. If you’re still having car trouble, Bass Transmissions is the place to call. Our expert mechanics have the knowledge and equipment to handle all types of automotive vehicles, foreign and domestic. We are happy to answer your questions about particular parts or brands, product pricing or about general automotive knowledge. Let us know how Bass Transmissions may be of service to you!
For more information on car batteries and cold weather, give Bass Transmission a call at (540) 345-8871. Like us on Facebook to stay up-to-date with the latest news and information. We are happy to discuss more information about car batteries and cold weather.
