How to Keep Your Car Battery Healthy This Winter
Posted in Servicing Insights
How to Keep Your Car Battery Healthy This Winter
Struggling to start your car on a cold Brisbane morning? You're not alone. While Queensland winters are far from arctic, those chilly overnight temps can still take a toll on your car battery.
Here's how you can stay ahead of the problem and avoid getting stuck with a flat battery this winter.
Why Cold Weather Affects Your Battery
Car batteries work harder in winter. When temperatures drop, the chemical reactions inside your battery slow down, which reduces its ability to generate power. Meanwhile, your engine demands more power to start in the cold. It's a double whammy that can lead to sluggish starts-or no start at all.
Sure, Brisbane doesn't see snow, but even overnight lows in the single digits can be enough to knock the life out of a tired or poorly maintained battery.
If your car's used to balmy weather year-round, that first real cold snap can be a shock to the system.
Check Your Battery's Age
Most car batteries last around 3-5 years. If yours is hitting the 3-year mark - or you can't remember when it was last replaced - it's worth getting it tested before winter really sets in.
Today's vehicles have more electrical features than ever. From infotainment systems to power windows and heated mirrors, everything runs off the battery. That extra load shortens its lifespan if it's not maintained properly.
If you're unsure about the condition of your battery, bring it into the Motorama Service Department. Our team can test it quickly and let you know if it's still up to scratch - or if it's time to replace it before it lets you down.
Don't Let It Sit Flat
Cars are built to be driven. If your vehicle sits idle for days or weeks at a time - say you're away on holiday or working from home more than usual - your battery will slowly discharge. Leave it too long and it could go flat altogether.
To avoid this:
- Take your car for a decent drive at least once a week
- Consider a trickle charger if your vehicle is going to sit unused
- If it's being stored long-term, remove the battery and store it fully charged
Not sure how to do that? Our service team is happy to help or walk you through the steps.
Minimise Extra Load
Cold starts already strain the battery. Throw in heated seats, lights, wipers, and your music system blasting, and you're demanding a lot all at once. Try to keep accessory use to a minimum until the engine's been running for a few minutes.
And if you've added aftermarket gear - like a dashcam, fridge, or upgraded sound system - it's worth checking how they impact your battery. In many cases, a deep-cycle or higher-capacity battery may be the smarter choice.
Keep the Whole Car in Check
A battery in top condition can still struggle if the rest of your car isn't running right. Faulty alternators, worn spark plugs, or dodgy wiring can all lead to battery drain or poor performance.
It's smart to schedule a regular maintenance check, especially as winter approaches. At Motorama, our service centres across Brisbane see more than 30,000 cars a year. Our technicians know what to look for - and what to fix - to keep your vehicle reliable through the colder months.
Book a Winter Battery Check at Motorama
Don't wait for that dreaded clicking sound when you turn the key on a frosty morning. Whether you're unsure about your battery, due for a service, or just want peace of mind, Motorama Tyre & Service has you covered.
Book your winter battery check with Motorama today and drive into winter with confidence.
