As the temperatures around the country start to drop, many will be heading indoors to keep warm. But there are a few who will be heading out and exploring our amazing but frigid country.
So, are there tips that South Africans can follow to ensure their car battery keeps going this winter?
There are a few. Here are our top suggestions.
Keep Your Battery Terminals Clean
No matter the season, it’s always in your best interest to check your motor vehicle battery terminals regularly. If you notice any corrosion or build-up, you’ll want to clean them.
To clean them, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual before disconnecting the battery cables. When it comes time to scrub the terminals, make a mixture of 65g baking soda and a litre of water. Using a wire brush and the mixture, remove any residue.
Clean terminals help maintain a good electrical connection.
Park Your Car In A Garage Or Use A Battery Blanket
In South Africa, it is unlikely that temperatures will drop enough to cause issues. But in countries further north, cold temperatures can reduce a battery’s performance.
For those living in small corners of the country where it snows, it would be a good idea, if possible, to park your car in a garage to provide some protection from the cold.
If you don’t have access to a garage, consider using a battery blanket or insulation wrap designed to keep the battery warm. It’s unlikely most of us will need to ensure our batteries are kept warm, but it’s a good tip to know.
Limit Battery Draining Accessories
Driving around during winter, you will probably have the heater on, as well as:
- heated seats,
- defrosters,
- and headlights.
And if you’re charging your phone and other devices in the car, all these additional strains can drain your battery.
If you can, minimise using these accessories when the engine is off to preserve battery power. It’s also good practice to turn off all lights and electronics before turning off the engine.
Take A Longer Drive
While petrol prices can make that lengthy drive expensive, it’s better for your battery’s health. Short trips and frequent starts can prevent your battery from fully charging, leading to a reduced lifespan.
Whenever possible, take longer drives to allow the battery to recharge fully. If your car isn’t being driven regularly, consider using a smart charger to keep the battery charged and in good condition.
Get Your Battery Tested
Before winter fully settles in, have your battery tested by a professional. A battery test can determine its health and alert you if it needs to be replaced. It’s better to replace a weak battery proactively than risk a breakdown in chilly weather.
There are many Willard Xpress outlets and stockists of Willard Batteries who will gladly assist with the testing.
And by following these tips, you can increase the chances of keeping your car battery in good condition during the winter and minimise the risk of encountering starting or electrical issues.
