When the temperature drops, your car battery feels it too. Cold weather can drain battery power, make engines harder to start, and leave you stranded on frosty mornings. That’s why winter is the most common time of year for battery breakdowns, but with a little preparation, you can keep your car running smoothly all season long.
At Halfords, we’ve teamed up with the experts at Yuasa, one of the world’s leading battery manufacturers, to share our top tips for looking after your car battery in winter.
Regular battery checks
Cold weather puts extra strain on your car’s electrical system, so it’s a good idea to check your battery’s health before winter really kicks in. At Halfords, we offer a Free Battery Check at our garages. Our technicians will test the condition, charge, and performance of your battery, so you’ll know whether it’s ready for the season ahead or needs replacing.
Yuasa batteries are engineered for long life and reliability, but even the best batteries can weaken over time. Regular checks mean no surprises when the cold snap hits.
Drive your car regularly
If your car isn’t driven regularly, the battery doesn’t get a chance to recharge. During winter, when we’re all staying in more, this can cause the battery to go flat. Try to take your car out for at least 20 minutes once a week. Even a short drive can help maintain a healthy charge.
If that’s not possible, consider using a battery charger. Halfords stocks a wide range of chargers, including Yuasa, that are perfect for keeping your battery topped up during long periods of inactivity.
Watch out for corrosion
Over time, battery terminals can build up corrosion, especially in damp, wintery conditions. This can affect performance and starting power. To prevent this, check the terminals occasionally and clean away any white or blue residue with a soft brush or battery cleaner. Always make sure the engine is off before you do this, or pop into your local Halfords and we’ll handle it for you.
Avoid draining your battery
It’s easy to drain your car battery without realising it. Leaving your headlights, heater, or radio on before you start the engine forces the battery to work harder than it needs to. In cold weather, that extra strain can make it even harder for your car to start. Switch off all electricals before turning the key. It’s a simple habit that helps preserve battery power and keeps your car running smoothly all winter.
Battery replacements
Car batteries typically last around 4–5 years, but cold weather can shorten that lifespan. If your car struggles to start, your headlights dim, or you notice electrical faults, it could be time for a replacement.
Yuasa batteries, available at Halfords, are trusted by leading car manufacturers for their reliability and performance in all conditions. From stop-start technology to advanced AGM batteries, Yuasa’s range offers the right fit for your vehicle.
If you do buy a new battery, our experts can fit it for you on the spot. Plus, join the Halfords Motoring Club as a Premium member and get one store fitting included in your membership.
Prepare for winter
Your battery is just one part of winter readiness. While you’re checking it, it’s also worth giving your wipers, lights, tyres, and fluids a quick once-over. You can even book a Halfords Winter Preparation Service, which includes key safety checks to make sure your car’s ready for whatever winter throws your way.
Stay powered through winter with Halfords and Yuasa. Whether you need a new battery, a health check, or a charger to keep things topped up, Halfords and Yuasa have you covered. Visit your local Halfords store or garage for expert advice and fitting you can trust, so you can enjoy stress-free starts all winter long.
