Car Battery Problems & Winter Driving: Tips to Prepare | BALTA

Latvian motorists are facing a stark reminder as winter recedes: preparation for the next cold season isn’t a task for spring, but a lesson learned from a dramatic surge in winter breakdowns. The phrase “Nevaru pielaist auto” – “I can’t start the car” – became a common refrain this past winter, with assistance requests skyrocketing, signaling a demand for proactive vehicle maintenance and a deeper understanding of how cold weather impacts automotive systems.

The data paints a clear picture. According to BALTA, a leading roadside assistance provider in Latvia, calls for help with dead batteries jumped from 68 in January 2023 to a staggering 303 in January 2024. This represents the largest increase in any category of assistance requests, highlighting the acute impact of freezing temperatures on vehicle starting systems. The increase underscores a broader trend of winter-related vehicle issues, with the number of vehicles breaking down on the road nearly doubling year-over-year.

The Chemistry of Cold and the Strain on Batteries

Uģis Ieviņš, KASKO Product Manager at BALTA, explains the underlying science. “In severe cold, the chemical processes within a battery slow down, reducing its ability to deliver the necessary power,” he notes. This is compounded by the increased electrical load placed on the battery during winter months. Drivers routinely use power-hungry features like heated seats, windshield defrosters, and headlights, all although the engine may not be running long enough to adequately recharge the battery during shorter winter commutes. Battery capacity, measured in Ampere-hours (Ah), dictates how long a battery can supply power before fully discharging, and cold temperatures demonstrably reduce that capacity.

The problem isn’t limited to battery performance. Ieviņš also points to the impact of cold on vehicle components. “In the cold, car control elements can freeze or accumulate condensation, and low voltage can affect the electronics,” he says. This can manifest as a range of issues, from difficulty starting to complete system failures.

Beyond Batteries: Fluids and Fuel in Freezing Conditions

The issue extends beyond the battery itself. Many drivers overlook the importance of using fluids and fuels appropriate for the prevailing temperatures. “Every driver knows that windshield washer fluid must match the outdoor temperature – but often forget to apply this principle to fuel and oil selection,” Ieviņš observes. Using incorrect fluids can lead to significant problems.

Cold temperatures thicken engine oil, making it harder for the engine to turn over, and placing an even greater demand on the battery. Diesel fuel, in particular, can crystallize in cold weather, blocking fuel lines and preventing the engine from starting. This crystallization occurs because diesel fuel contains waxes that solidify at lower temperatures. The severity of the problem depends on the diesel fuel grade and the ambient temperature.

Short Trips: A Hidden Drain on Battery Life

Driving habits also play a crucial role. While a long highway drive can fully charge a battery, frequent short trips often depart it undercharged. The engine may not run long enough to replenish the energy consumed by starting the vehicle and powering accessories. This is particularly problematic for diesel vehicles, which require more heat to reach optimal operating temperature. If a vehicle is used infrequently and for short distances, a diesel engine may not fully warm up, accelerating wear and increasing the risk of malfunctions.

The data confirms this trend. BALTA reported a near doubling in the number of calls related to vehicles stalling on the road, suggesting that a combination of cold-related mechanical issues and undercharged batteries are leaving drivers stranded.

Proactive Maintenance: A Winter Readiness Checklist

The solution, according to industry experts, lies in proactive maintenance. “It is advisable to have the battery tested as early as autumn, before the onset of frost, rather than waiting for a problem to arise,” Ieviņš advises. A battery test can assess its remaining capacity and identify potential issues before they lead to a breakdown.

Beyond battery testing, several other steps can help prepare a vehicle for winter. These include:

• Checking and replacing fluids: Ensure that engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid are appropriate for the expected temperatures.
• Inspecting tires: Ensure tires have adequate tread depth for optimal grip in snowy or icy conditions. Consider winter tires if you live in an area with severe winters.
• Maintaining a portable jump starter: A compact, portable jump starter can be a lifesaver in emergency situations, even if there’s no other vehicle nearby.

What to Expect in the Coming Months

Looking ahead, the need for preventative maintenance is likely to remain high. As vehicle technology becomes more complex, with increasing reliance on electronic systems, the demands on the battery will only increase. The trend towards electric vehicles also introduces new challenges, as battery performance is particularly sensitive to cold temperatures.

For Latvian motorists, the lessons of this past winter are clear: winterizing a vehicle isn’t a one-time task, but an ongoing process. Regular maintenance, coupled with an understanding of how cold weather impacts vehicle systems, is essential for avoiding the frustration – and potential danger – of being stranded with a dead battery.