Cold Weather Car Battery Maintenance: How to Avoid a Dead Battery in Alberta
Struggling to start your car in freezing temperatures? Cold weather can drain your car battery, leaving you stranded at the worst possible time. Here in Lacombe, Alberta, winters are harsh, and a weak battery can mean the difference between getting to work on time or waiting for a boost in the cold.
At Lacombe Ford's Quick Lane, we service ALL makes & models and offer fast, no-appointment-needed battery checks and replacements. Keep reading for expert winter battery maintenance tips to keep your car running all season long.
Why Does Cold Weather Kill Car Batteries?
At -18°C, a car battery loses up to 50% of its strength, making it harder for your vehicle to start. Combine that with the extra power demand from heaters and defrosters, and your battery is working overtime.
Signs Your Battery Is Dying in Winter
❄ Slow engine crank (your car struggles to start)
❄ Dim headlights & interior lights
❄ Clicking sound when turning the key
❄ Needing a boost more often
❄ Battery warning light on your dashboard
Pro Tip: If your battery is over 3 years old, consider replacing it before deep winter hits.
Winter Car Battery Tips
✅ 1. Get a Battery Test Before It's Too Late
Cold weather will expose weak batteries. Get a quick battery check at Lacombe Ford's Quick Lane before you get stranded.
✅ 2. Keep Battery Terminals Clean
Corrosion weakens battery connections. A quick clean-up improves battery performance.
✅ 3. Avoid Short Trips
Short drives don't give your battery time to recharge. Try longer trips to help maintain battery health.
✅ 4. Use a Battery Blanket or Trickle Charger
If your car sits in extreme cold, a battery warmer or trickle charger can help maintain power.
✅ 5. Turn Off Accessories Before Starting
Before turning the key, switch off:
- Heater
-Radio
-Headlights
This reduces strain on the battery and improves startup performance.
✅ 6. Replace an Aging Battery Before It Fails
If your battery is 3+ years old, consider replacing it before deep winter to avoid breakdowns.
Need a Battery Check or Replacement? Visit Quick Lane at Lacombe Ford!
Lacombe Ford's Quick Lane offers:
✅ FREE battery checks
✅ Fast battery replacements for ALL makes & models
✅ No appointment necessary--just drive in!
Serving Lacombe, Blackfalds, Sylvan Lake, Red Deer, Ponoka & all of Central Alberta!
Stop by today!
