When the temperature drops, the cold makes it difficult for automobile batteries to maintain their charge. You might head out to your car one morning only to discover the battery's dead and the car won't start. If that happens, a call for roadside assistance or a jump start from your neighbor. However, before you do that, try a couple of simple procedures to see if you can start the vehicle yourself.

What to Do First Before You Call for a Jump Start

Listen to the Starter

If the starter cranks and cranks but the engine won't turn over, the problem is most likely not the battery. You might be out of gas, the fuel line may be frozen, or the fuel pump could be bad. If the starter just clicks or cranks weakly and dies, it's likely either a dead battery or a loose battery cable. If it's a dead battery, a jump start could help. However, try the following suggestions, first.

Turn Off All Accessories

Turn off the headlights, radio, overhead lights, heater fan, and any other accessories that might be drawing electricity from the battery. Close the door, and start the engine again. By directing all available energy to the starter, you might have enough power to turn the engine over and get it running. If this works, let the battery charge for several minutes before turning off the key.

Clean the Battery Terminals

If that doesn’t the trick, pop the hood and check the battery cable connectors. Two wires from the engine connect to two terminals on the battery, If either connection is loose, remove the connector from the terminal and clean away any corrosion that might have formed between them. Scrape clean the battery terminal and the inside of the connector, then reattach the wire tightly. By removing the corrosion, you will have a stronger connection to turn over the engine.

If you've tried everything and you definitely need a jump start, contact Northgate Towing in Cincinnati, OH.  They are family-owned and -operated and have served the Greater Cincinnati area — including Northgate, Colerain, Mt. Healthy, and Springdale — since 1983. Visit their website to learn what roadside assistance services they provide or call (808) 349-4410 to request service, 24-hours a day, 7 days per week.