An auto-parts expert has explained step-by-step what you need to do to keep your car running in cold weather
As winter approaches, British drivers face one of the most common and frustrating car problems: a dead battery. With repair costs climbing and cold weather putting extra strain on vehicles, motorists across the country are searching for affordable ways to keep their cars running smoothly through the darker months.
According to one motor expert, there’s a simple £5 solution that could save you hundreds in battery replacements and breakdown callouts. “Most drivers don’t realise that a small amount of preventative maintenance can make a massive difference to battery life,” explains Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko , one of Europe’s largest online marketplaces for used car parts. “We’re talking about a product that costs less than a coffee and takes five minutes to apply, yet it can add years to your battery’s lifespan.”
The trick involves using dielectric grease on your battery terminals, a straightforward maintenance step that creates a protective barrier against the corrosion and connection issues that cause so many winter breakdowns.
Urbonas said: “Battery maintenance doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. Simple checks can prevent most winter breakdowns and save drivers significant money. First, know your battery’s age – most last between three to five years. If yours is approaching that range, consider replacing it before winter rather than risking a breakdown. Check that all connections are tight; even slightly loose terminals can cause starting problems.
“I’d also recommend keeping a set of jump leads in the boot. Even with proper maintenance, batteries can fail unexpectedly, and having leads means you’re not stranded waiting for recovery. The dielectric grease trick is something I always recommend to anyone who wants to get the most from their battery. It’s one of those rare maintenance tasks where the minimal effort genuinely pays off over time.”
Why Winter Is So Hard On Car Batteries
Cold weather is the enemy of car batteries. When temperatures drop, the chemical reactions inside a battery slow down significantly, reducing its ability to hold and deliver charge. At the same time, engine oil thickens in the cold, meaning your starter motor needs more power to turn the engine over.
Add to this the increased electrical demands of winter driving, such as heated screens, blowers, lights running for longer periods, and it’s easy to see why batteries struggle during the colder months. Batteries that might seem fine in summer simply can’t cope when winter arrives.
The Hidden Problem: Terminal Corrosion
While cold weather challenges are well known, drivers often overlook a more insidious issue: corrosion on battery terminals. That white or blue-green crusty buildup you might have noticed is not only unsightly, but is actively sabotaging your battery’s performance.
“Corrosion creates resistance in the electrical connection between your battery and the rest of the car,” says Urbonas. “Even a small amount can prevent the battery from charging properly or delivering full power when you need it. Over time, this drains the battery faster and leads to premature failure.”
This poor connectivity means drivers often replace batteries that aren’t actually worn out. They’re just unable to work efficiently because of corroded terminals.
The £5 Fix: Dielectric Grease
Dielectric grease, available from any auto parts shop for around £5, provides a simple solution. This non-conductive silicone-based compound creates a waterproof seal around battery terminals, preventing moisture and contaminants from causing corrosion.
Urboans explains how to apply it:
1. Clean the battery terminals : Use a wire brush or stiff cloth to remove any existing corrosion from both the battery posts and cable clamps. For stubborn buildup, a mixture of baking soda and water works well.
2. Apply dielectric grease : Squeeze a small amount (roughly pea-sized) onto each terminal post. You don’t need much, as a thin layer is sufficient.
3. Reattach and tighten : Reconnect the clamps to the terminals and ensure they’re firmly tightened. The grease will spread as you tighten, creating a protective seal.
“The beauty of dielectric grease is that it doesn’t conduct electricity, so it won’t cause short circuits, but it completely blocks moisture,” Urbonas explains. “Once applied, it can protect your terminals for months, even in harsh conditions.”
The Benefits Add Up
The advantages of this simple maintenance step extend beyond just preventing corrosion. “Clean, protected terminals ensure your battery charges efficiently from the alternator, meaning it stays healthier for longer,” says Urbonas. “They also provide reliable connections when you need maximum power, like on a freezing morning when you’re already late for work.”
Perhaps most importantly, this five-minute job can prevent the inconvenience and cost of a breakdown. With roadside assistance callouts typically costing £80-£150, and battery replacements ranging from £100-£200, a £5 tube of grease represents exceptional value.
