Winter is the most difficult season for driving, but it’s even harder in northern states like Alaska. Not only is the temperature lower than other places in the United States, but there is a longer and more intense darkness to contend with. The harsh Alaskan winter means drivers must be more alert than ever and prepared to seek auto care if their vehicle has even a small problem. One of the most common issues Alaskans have to deal with in the cold is trouble starting up their cars. Here are a few reasons why this issue can occur.

Why Your Car Might Not Start in the Winter

1. Dead Battery

Without your car’s battery, there is no power to feed your engine. As the temperature gets lower, the chemical reaction inside of batteries takes longer to occur; if the battery is at a middling charge, it can nosedive to no power with little warning. If your car takes longer than usual to start in the cold of winter, it’s smart to head to an auto care center and have the technicians fully charge the battery. 

2. Thick Oil

A car’s oil keeps the engine lubricated, preventing the heat buildup as parts rub against each other. The frigid temperatures make your car’s oil thicker, causing it to lose effectiveness. Not only will driving cause greater strain and overheating, but the extra friction makes it almost impossible for the starter to rotate your engine. To avoid a series of challenging starts, ask an auto care crew about motor oil that is optimized specifically for the cold. 

3. Slow Evaporation

The cold weather makes it more difficult for your car to burn the gasoline it needs to start the car. Gasoline evaporates at a slower pace in lower temperatures, meaning it takes longer to become the vapor necessary for burning. One solution is to keep your vehicle in a garage instead of outside. Another option is to distribute ether into the engine, which will help the gasoline evaporate. 

If you’re having trouble starting up your car this winter, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted auto care service. In business for more than 25 years, the Automotive Service Excellence-certified mechanics at Professional Automotive in Anchorage, AK, are used to the Alaskan winters and know just how to defend your car against them. With their sophisticated computer diagnostics program, they can detect engine problems on the spot. Call (907) 562-2471 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services.