AA says cooler conditions increase flat battery callouts

The Automobile Association is reminding motorists their car batteries will be feeling the effects of winter just as much as humans are. Flat battery callouts have topped 10,000 since the beginning of winter. ­

AA Chief Mobility Officer, Jonathan Sergel, said that older batteries are more likely to fail in colder temperatures. That’s because they need to work harder to crank colder engines.

He suggested “A common sign of a weak battery is a distinctive clicking sound meaning the battery can’t provide sufficient voltage to start the engine.” That’s due either to a lack of charge or the battery passing its serviceable life.

“You can prolong your battery health in winter by parking in a garage where possible and ensuring your battery has clean cables and terminals. 

“If you are not using your vehicle frequently, then using a trickle charger is a very sensible thing to do.”

Batteries suffer more in colder regions. Marlborough and South Canterbury regions saw a more than 30 per cent jump in callouts jobs during one cooler week in June compared with the same week last year. 

Other tips for winter driving

Mr Sergel adds that there’s more to safe winter driving than just battery health.

“Visibility is crucial. If you’re heading out early, you might be faced with a frosty windscreen. Avoid pouring boiling water on it which may damage your windshield. Instead use lukewarm water and a scraper to clear the ice.

“And avoid rubbing foggy windscreens with your hands as this can make visibility worse. Let your vehicle’s air conditioning system take care of it.

“In adverse conditions, drive with your headlights on.

“Roads are more likely to be slippery in the cold months, reducing friction on your tyres. Take extra caution when cornering, accelerating and braking, and be aware of black ice.

“If possible, avoid driving in snow, especially if your vehicle isn’t 4WD. 

“Keep your phone fully charged before a journey should you need to call the AA for help.

He concluded “The key to any safe winter driving is good judgement. If you’re not confident driving in the weather conditions or in the state of the roads, delay your trip.”