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Winter weather and road conditions can wreak havoc on your vehicle. Your battery is one of the components most vulnerable to temperature fluctuations. Without preventative maintenance, you could find yourself calling for roadside assistance. Below is a comprehensive overview of how cold temperatures affect batteries and how to avoid this problem.

How Cold Weather Affect Batteries

roadside assistance A battery generates electricity when a connection is made between the positive and negative terminals. They produce a chemical reaction which allows the battery to deliver a strong current to the engine. However, there are two factors that make this process more difficult in the winter. First, the engine is difficult to start because motor oil thickens in freezing temperatures so more juice must be drained from the battery. Additionally, cold weather causes the chemical reaction from the terminals to move more slowly so the battery will produce a less powerful current. As the battery becomes more worn, it will be unable to meet the engine’s demands and die.  

Signs of Dying Batteries & What to Do

A tell-tale sign of a dying battery is a slow crank when attempting to start the engines or a clicking sound when turning the key. The headlights may also appear dimmer. If you inspect the battery case, it will look swollen or worn. If you identify any of these signs, take your vehicle to a shop for a replacement. A dead battery can leave you stranded and require you to contact roadside assistance for a jumpstart or towing. 

 

If you find yourself stranded with a dead battery, don’t hesitate to contact the towing professionals at Bolster’s Towing for roadside assistance. For almost 50 years, they have offered dependable 24-hour towing and recovery services to vehicle owners throughout Flathead Valley for. With their state-of-the-art trucks and exceptional customer service, they are dedicated to getting you and your vehicle to a safe location. Give them a call (406) 752-4528 to request roadside assistance or visit them online to learn more about their list of services. 

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