Snow and frost can be a nightmare for drivers – especially when a car simply won’t start. But now, the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) has shed light on a few ways to diagnose the issue from inside your vehicle, while dishing out advice on what to do next.
While the breakdown service provider said that fuel systems, starter motors, alternators and even oil often deteriorates in icy weather, one particular part of the car is especially vulnerable to winter. You may be surprised to hear that such a part is the battery, with the RAC stating that a ‘vast number’ of winter callouts are related to this.
“If your car won’t start in cold conditions, by far the most likely cause is the battery,” the RAC explained in a blog. “It may just be as simple as jump starting it or recharging the battery – let’s look at the symptoms.”
To identify what’s wrong with your battery, it’s crucial to observe what exactly happens when you put your key in the car. If turning the key in the ignition triggers a ‘faint whining noise’, chances are, you have a flat battery.
In cases where you hear no sound at all, it could mean one of two things – your battery is totally depleted or it has come loose from the wires. The insurance provider continued: “Further signs of a completely flat battery include the ignition lights on the dashboard failing to illuminate, and the car refusing to unlock via remote central locking.”
Dealing with any of these issues while in a hurry can be incredibly frustrating. But the RAC explained that you’ll need to address them if you want to drive on further.
Although attempting to jump start your car with cables and another vehicle may work, it can take far longer to replace your battery altogether. The RAC recommended its own Battery Fitting Service for this, reachable at 0333 2000 999.
There are ways to prevent these winter-related issues from happening too. For individuals who use their cars regularly for short trips, the RAC recommends charging the battery ‘at least once a week’ especially if it is more than three years old.
“Cold temperatures affect the chemical process that produces and stores electricity inside the battery, slowing the battery down and reducing its ability to hold a charge,” its advice added. “Knowing how to charge car batteries can help you get out of a difficult situation without immediate need for a mechanic.”