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Here at Century Batteries we’ve spent over 95 years building batteries that are designed for tough Australian conditions, but even the best batteries aren’t immune to the physics of cold weather. So why does winter put your battery to the test?
Reduced Cranking Power
When the temperature drops, the chemical reaction inside your car battery slows down. This means the battery produces less electrical energy - right at the time when your vehicle needs more power to start. Cold oil thickens, components move less freely, and your starter motor draws more current. It’s a perfect storm that can leave your battery unable to do its job.
In fact, a battery can lose up to 35% of its cranking capacity when temperatures fall to around 0°C, and even more in extreme conditions.
And if your battery is already a few years old or not holding charge as it should, that drop in performance can be enough to prevent your engine from starting altogether.
Increased Demand on the System
Winter also tends to increase the electrical load on your vehicle. Headlights, heaters, windscreen demisters, wipers and heated seats all put extra pressure on your battery and charging system. On short trips, your alternator may not have enough time to fully recharge the battery between starts, leading to a gradual decline in charge and performance.
This is especially true in stop-start or city driving, where the engine may be switched off at traffic lights or in heavy traffic - further reducing the available charge time.
Age and Battery Condition Matters
Batteries don’t last forever. If your battery is three to five years old, winter is often the season that exposes underlying issues – such as sulphation, internal corrosion or general wear. Even minor faults can be amplified by the cold, resulting in unexpected failures.
That’s why it’s important to have your battery tested before winter hits. A quick battery health check from your local Century Battery reseller can help identify any warning signs and reduce the risk of being caught out on a frosty morning.
Tips to Beat the Cold
Here are a few simple ways to help your battery survive the winter:
- Keep it charged - If your vehicle isn’t used daily, consider using a smart battery charger to maintain optimal charge levels.
- Check terminals - Ensure your battery terminals are clean, tight and free of corrosion.
- Limit short trips - Try to combine errands to give the alternator more time to recharge the battery.
- Test before trouble - A preventative test is quick, easy and often free at participating Century stockists.
Winter doesn’t have to mean flat batteries and inconvenience. With the right preparation - and a reliable battery under the bonnet - you can trust every start, no matter how cold the conditions get.
Need a new battery or a free battery health check?
Find your local stockist or call us on 1300 362 287.
