Visit the Capitol Chevrolet Service Center if You Have Problems With Your Vehicle Starting in Colder Weather

March 15th, 2022

Don't let cold weather delay your weekend getaway. If your vehicle is having problems starting, don't assume the worst. Cold temperatures can slow down oil flow, weaken your battery, and can cause issues with the starter. A little bit of oil, some standard car-care knowledge, and a strong battery life can help keep these issues at bay. Thankfully with modern engineering, many of these issues take care of themselves. When heading out on the road, check these important things to know before driving in colder weather.

4. WHY ARE CARS HARDER TO START IN COLD WEATHER?

Even with modern engine technology, cold weather can cause a delay with starting your engine. Newer vehicles feature fuel-injected engines that have fewer issues than antique, carbureted engines when it comes to starting in the cold. When the temperature drops, your vehicle's battery generates less power, which is part of the reason batteries are rated by "Cold Cranking Amps" to help determine its life during harsher weather. The difference between room temperature and zero degrees fahrenheit is astounding; the ACDelco Advantage Battery 47S, which is a typical battery size, produces 785 amps at room temperature and only 630 at zero degrees. As it gets colder that number drops precariously. Thankfully, Oregon rarely experiences such extreme temperatures and usually a standard battery will do for your daily drive. Colder weather can cause extra stress on your starter as well, as oil flow is reduced and resistance increases.

3. HOW COLD DOES IT HAVE TO BE TO AFFECT MY VEHICLE?

Salem rarely experiences temperatures at or below zero degrees fahrenheit, which is where cold cranking amps begin being measured. In higher climates, like northern Canada this might be the norm, but it is pretty unusual here. The weather has to get pretty cold before affecting the performance of your vehicle. In much colder weather, battery warmers can come in handy; these small insulated electric blankets warm your car's battery. Maintaining your vehicle and ensuring your battery has a good life expectancy is typically enough here for your daily commute.

2. HOW CAN I PREPARE MY VEHICLE TO START UP IN THE WINTER?

Following the instructions for your vehicle's manufacturing guidelines to maintain it is a great way to help prep your vehicle for chilly conditions. Check the oil viscosity grade for your engine, chosen specifically by the engineers to help with better flow all year round, at your next maintenance appointment. If you're using the wrong oil, problems might arise in winter if the oil becomes too thick. We also recommend doing a battery health test. Our technicians will use specialty tools to test your battery's health and can replace it if needed to help avoid getting stranded due to low battery life. You may not notice an issue while it's warm, but when cold weather kicks in, if your battery doesn't have enough power your vehicle will struggle to start.

1. WHAT IF I'M PLANNING A ROAD TRIP TO A COLDER CLIMATE?

Whenever you make plans to travel out of town, it's a safe idea to have your vehicle checked to make sure everything is in running order before you run the risk of getting stranded. Test your battery so you know your ride will start up even in the cold. For snowy adventures consider adding snow chains especially for two-wheel drive vehicles and double check that you have good tires. In case you do get stuck due to inclement weather, consider adding an emergency kit to your supplies, including a blanket and water to wait out a snowstorm. You'll also want to make sure your wiper fluid is filled with de-icer rated fluid that can withstand very cold temperatures and won't freeze. Maintaining your vehicle is an important step to help it combat some severe weather.