As winter temperatures plummeted over the weekend, a sudden increase in dead car batteries left countless drivers stranded and in need of roadside assistance as the new week rolled in.
Roadside service providers reported a substantial surge in call volumes, far beyond the usual range of 2,200 to 2,800 calls, due to the extreme cold conditions.
Nicolas Ryan, the Director of public affairs for CAA-Québec, joined CityNews to shed light on the phenomenon and offer advice for drivers grappling with freezing temperatures.
Why do we see a rise in battery failures during such cold snaps?
“During the past three days alone, we received over 20,000 calls for assistance. Many people are unaware that hot temperatures in the summer actually harm the battery. When the mercury drops to -15°C or -20°C, a higher level of battery power is required to start a vehicle.
“People often neglect the necessary maintenance before the cold sets in, leading to insufficient power in the battery for starting the car. This is when they reach out to us for help in jump-starting their vehicles.”
For those concerned about facing a similar situation, what preventive measures should they take?
“It’s crucial to test the battery’s power before the onset of each season. When facing extreme cold, there are two key steps to consider. Firstly, if possible, plug in your car before starting it to aid in warming up the engine. Secondly, consider using a block heater to pre-heat the engine, leading to a more favorable starting temperature for your vehicle.
“By following these precautions, you significantly improve your chances of starting your car in freezing conditions without having to rely on roadside assistance when your battery fails.”
Keyphrase: dead car batteries
