Why won’t my car start in cold weather?
Cold weather reduces your car battery’s efficiency and increases the power needed to start the engine. Low temperatures on frosty mornings can also thicken engine oil, making the engine harder to turn over. Older or weakened batteries are especially likely to fail in winter.
Cold temperatures can also slow down the chemical reactions inside a car battery, reducing its ability to deliver power. In freezing conditions, a battery can lose up to half of its starting power, making it harder to start the engine.
While cold weather can be tough on your vehicle, there are practical steps you can take to get your car started again. In this guide, we’ll explain why cars struggle in the cold and share simple, effective ways to start your vehicle in cold weather.
What should I do before starting my car on a cold morning?
Before starting your car in cold weather:
- Make sure all doors are closed to prevent interior lights draining the battery.
- Switch off non-essential electronics, including headlights, radio, heaters, and phone chargers, as this helps preserve battery power for starting the engine.
What should I do if my engine won’t turn over?
Turn the key or press the start button and hold it for up to 10 seconds. If the engine doesn’t start, avoid trying for longer, as this can further drain the battery and reduce your chances of success.
Pay attention to what happens when you try to start the car:
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If dashboard lights come on: This usually means there is still some battery charge.
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If there are no lights or sound at all: This is a strong sign the battery is flat.
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If there is a clicking or ticking noise: The battery may have some power but not enough to start the engine.
If your car doesn’t start after 10 to 20 seconds of cranking, stop and wait for a minute or two before trying again. This short pause gives the battery time to recover and warm up slightly, while also allowing the starter motor to cool down.
If the engine sounds like it’s close to starting but struggles, give it a break and try again after waiting. However, if the engine won’t turn over at all, the battery is likely discharged and you may need to jump-start the car.
When should I jump start my car?
If your battery is flat, jump-starting can help get you moving again. For step-by-step instructions, follow our guide on how to jump-start a car.
You should jump-start your car if:
- The engine won’t turn over at all
- The battery is flat
- Multiple start attempts have failed despite waiting between tries
If you notice signs such as a leaking or corroded battery or visible damage, you should not attempt a jump start, as this could be dangerous.
Also, while attempting a jump start, if you start to notice unusual noises, or smoke coming from under the bonnet, stop and visit your nearest Halfords as soon as possible.
We also offer hassle-free car battery fitting at our stores by our trained experts. Book online or walk-ins are also available.
Join the Halfords Motoring Club
Did you know that when you join Halfords Motoring Club as a Premium member, you gain access to a range of benefits, including a store fitting (bulb, battery, or a pair of wiper blades) and two 10 Point Car Checks (worth £30) included in the cost! You’ll also get 5% off all motoring products and services for the year! Join today to access a range of amazing benefits and discounts that are designed to keep you moving, keep you safe and keep you saving, even when driving in cold, icy weather!