Oil Grade and Car Batteries: Keeping Your Vehicle Running in Freezing Temperatures

Posted by Cindy on December 22, 2009

Before the cold weather sets in, it is time to change your oil.  A Ford Ranger repair manual will offer suggestions on the best grade of oil for your car and for it being able to endure sub-zero temperatures which in some cases, can last up to three months, if not more.  Those cold temperatures will not only make your nose freeze and your finger tips ache, but can wreak a bit of havoc on your vehicle if you do not take precautionary steps to avoid that.

No matter what make and model your vehicle is, be it a Ford Ranger or a Chevrolet Cavalier, repair manual suggestions involve using the lowest grad of oil recommended for your vehicle, during the times of cold winter months.  This will not only protect the working parts of your car’s engine, but will also result in better fuel efficiency as well as better conservation of energy.

It will aid in starting your car quicker and allowing the engine too, to warm up quicker.   During winter is when many people decide to make the switch to a synthetic blend of oil.  These blends serve to further speed up your car’s starting abilities, and will ensure that the residual sludge will not build up through your engine, keeping it running longer and better even in the freezing temperatures. And taking steps to ensure that all of your battery cables are tightened and clean, will help your battery when it attempts to start that oh so cold engine.

Water and baking soda, with a used toothbrush is all you need to clean those terminals.   Batteries under perfect conditions will last three to five years, so be aware of the age of your battery.  You can take it to any garage and they can test it for you if you are unsure.  You may find that it is time to buy a new one before the season begins, so look for one with the capacity to reserve electrical power, one that has a higher crank amp, and one that offers the best possible starting power.