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Battery check before winter: how to avoid unpleasant surprises on a cold morning

When the weather gets cold, many drivers only remember their battery when their car won’t start in the morning. Winter is a real test for a battery, so taking care of its condition before the cold weather sets in is one of the easiest ways to avoid problems, unnecessary stress, and additional costs.

Why do batteries get "tired" in winter?

The battery is sensitive to temperature changes. Cold reduces its ability to deliver electricity, while at the same time the car’s starter and entire electrical system require more power. If the battery is already worn out or has not been fully charged for a long time, the first frosts can be its last test.

In addition, in winter we use additional electrical devices more often – seat heating, fog lights, fan, glass heating. All this puts even more strain on the system.

How do I know when the battery needs to be replaced?

The main signs that the battery is approaching the “end”:

  • The engine is having trouble starting – the starter turns slower than usual, especially in the mornings.
  • Lights go out or flash during startup.
  • Warning on the dashboard – a battery symbol or error message appears.
  • The battery is more than 4-5 years old – even if it is still working, its capacity has already decreased significantly.
  • The car is often used for short distances – the battery does not have time to fully charge, so its condition deteriorates faster.

When is it enough to simply charge the battery?

Sometimes the battery is still usable, but simply not charged enough. In this case, the following helps:

  • Full charge with a special charger (preferably with automatic voltage control).
  • A longer trip takes at least 30-40 minutes to allow the generator to charge.
  • Regular inspection at a car service – many workshops offer free voltage and capacity checks.

If the battery discharges quickly after a full charge, it’s a signal that it’s time to replace it.

How to properly maintain a battery?

  1. Check the terminals and contacts. They should be clean, free of oxidation or corrosion.
  2. Monitor the charging voltage. It should be around 13.8-14.4 V with the engine running.
  3. Avoid parking the car for long periods with systems turned on (e.g. alarm, accessories with direct current).
  4. Occasionally fully charge the battery with a charger if the car is parked for a long time – this is especially important for rarely used cars or seasonal vehicles

Cars with Start/Stop system - are any batteries suitable for them?

No. Such cars are equipped with AGM or EFB type batteries that can withstand frequent on/off cycles. If a regular lead-acid battery is installed instead, it will wear out quickly and the car system may start to display error messages. Therefore, when replacing the battery, it is necessary to choose the same type and capacity as intended by the manufacturer.

Cars with Dual Battery systems - what makes them special?

Some cars, especially SUVs, campers or models with powerful sound, lighting or Start/Stop systems, have a dual battery system.
Typically, one battery is used to start the engine, and the other is used to power electronic devices or additional equipment.

Some important tips:

  • Both batteries must be technically compatible. When replacing one, it is important to make sure that their voltage and type meet the manufacturer’s requirements.
  • The charging system must work for both batteries. Some cars charge them separately – so it is worth checking that the second battery is receiving a charge.
  • During extended parking, it is recommended to periodically charge both batteries separately, especially if the second one is used for accessories or parking systems.

So if you have a car with a dual battery system, it requires a little more maintenance and specific knowledge, so before winter, it’s worth visiting a service center that is familiar with these systems.

Hybrid and electric cars - do they also need to take care of their batteries?

Yes, even fully electric cars have a regular 12V battery that powers the car’s electronics, alarm, door locks, lights, and other devices.
The only difference is that:

  • It is not used to start the engine, so it experiences less load.
  • However, if you stand for a long time without charging the main battery, the 12 V battery may discharge.

Therefore, owners of hybrid and electric cars are also recommended to preventively check the battery voltage and fully charge it once a year.

When is it worth visiting a service center?

If in doubt, it is best to check the battery with a special device. Most car repair shops can quickly perform battery tests that measure its capacity, current strength and charge level. The test results will allow you to know exactly whether the battery is still good or whether it is better to replace it in advance, before the sub-zero temperatures hit.

Does roadside assistance cover a dead battery situation?

The CASCO insurance offered by insurance companies, and in some cases also in Compulsory Civil Liability insurance contracts, often includes a Roadside Assistance package. It may also include a jump-start service for a car if the battery is discharged. Therefore, it is worth carefully reading the Roadside Assistance terms and conditions of your existing insurance contracts and making sure that this service is available to you.

In such cases, help is often provided free of charge and quickly, which can save you from unnecessary worries on a cold winter morning.

Finally

A preventive battery check is a simple but very practical step that can save you a lot of time and nerves during the winter. Like insurance, it gives you peace of mind – knowing that your car will start reliably even in the coldest weather.

✅ We remind you:

You can quickly compare and purchase compulsory third-party liability insurance on the Man Ramu insurance platform – manramu.lt
A few minutes, and your car is insured without worries.

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