Tips to protect your car battery

Here are some simple but effective ways to winterise your car battery:

Check the condition of your battery

Have your battery checked at a garage before winter. A specialist can measure whether the battery still has sufficient capacity. If your battery is older (4-6 years), it may be wise to replace it preventively.

Keep the battery charged

Especially in winter, it is important to make sure the battery is fully charged. Take regular longer rides of at least 30 minutes so that the alternator can charge the battery properly. Use a trickle charger if you take short trips or if your car is stationary for a long time.

Avoid unnecessary power users

Turn on extra power consumers such as seat heating, rear window heating and air conditioning only when necessary. This prevents unnecessary strain on the battery, especially just after starting the engine.

Park in a sheltered spot

Park your car in a garage or out of the wind whenever possible. If you don’t have a garage, an insulating car blanket over the bonnet can help keep the engine and battery warmer.

Use a battery cover

For cold areas, you can use a battery insulator. This is a cover made of insulating material that protects your battery from extreme cold.

Get a good start

Make sure the battery’s terminals are clean and rust-free. Corrosion on the terminals can restrict power. Clean these with a brush and a little baking soda or specially designed spray.

Be prepared for emergencies

Make sure you have a jump starter or jumper cables in your car. Should your battery unexpectedly run down, you can bail yourself (or others) out.

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