Why Car Batteries Struggle in Winter

At Yuasa Batteries, we understand the challenges that seasonal extremes can bring. Our batteries are built to withstand the tough demands of New Zealand conditions, but even the most dependable battery can be affected by low temperatures. So why does winter increase the risk of battery failure?

Cold Weather Reduces Starting Power

When the mercury drops, the chemical reactions inside your car battery slow down. This results in less electrical energy being available - right when your engine demands more to turn over. Cold oil thickens, internal components become sluggish, and your starter motor draws more current to get things moving. The result? A battery that may struggle to provide enough cranking power.

In fact, at around 0°C, your battery could lose up to 35% of its cranking performance, and even more in colder regions.

If your battery is nearing the end of its service life or not maintaining charge as it should, the reduced output during winter can lead to frustrating no-start situations.

Increased Electrical Load

Winter also places added demand on your vehicle’s electrical system. Headlights, heaters, wipers, windscreen demisters and heated seats can significantly increase the electrical load, placing greater stress on your battery and alternator.

Short trips make matters worse - your alternator may not have enough time to recharge the battery between starts, which can lead to a gradual loss of charge and declining performance. This is particularly noticeable in stop-start traffic or city driving conditions.

Age and Condition Are Critical

Car batteries typically last between three to five years. As they age, internal wear such as sulphation, corrosion, or plate degradation can reduce their ability to perform - especially in colder conditions.

That’s why winter is often the season when battery issues first become obvious. A quick pre-winter battery test from your local Yuasa stockist can identify early signs of trouble and help you avoid unexpected failure.

Simple Tips to Stay Powered Through Winter

To help your battery perform at its best this winter, consider the following tips:

• Keep it charged – If your car isn’t driven regularly, use a quality battery charger to maintain optimal charge levels.

• Check connections – Ensure battery terminals are clean, tight, and free from corrosion.

• Limit short trips – Combine errands to give your alternator more time to recharge the battery.

• Get it tested – Visit your nearest Yuasa Battery specialist for a quick, professional battery health check.

With the right care and a quality battery from Yuasa, you can rely on consistent performance all winter long - no matter how cold it gets.

Need a battery health check or replacement?
Visit your nearest Yuasa stockist or call us on 0800 93 93 93.