October Is Car Care Month — Start With Your Battery
Every October is Car Care Month — a national reminder to inspect and maintain your vehicle before winter's demands set in. And if there's one component that deserves your attention first, it's your battery.
Cold temperatures reduce a battery's cranking power while simultaneously increasing the energy required to start your engine. A battery that performs fine in summer can leave you stranded on the first cold morning of the season. Cold temperatures can reduce cranking power by 30%, while increasing starter loads by 10%. A Car that starts on a 40 degree October morning, might not be ready for those chilly November and December starts.
Signs Your Battery May Need Attention
- Slow or labored engine cranking when starting
- Headlights or interior lights that appear dimmer than usual
- A battery that's 3–5 years old or older
- Visible corrosion around the terminals
- The battery warning light is illuminated on your dash
If you notice any of these, it's worth having your battery inspected before the temperature drops.
Your October Battery Preparation Checklist
- Visually inspect the battery. Look for cracks in the case, corrosion on the terminals, or loose cable connections. Clean terminal buildup with a wire brush and a baking soda solution if needed.
- Check the age. Most batteries last 3–5 years. If yours is approaching or past that range, have it tested here at Walter's.
- Keep it charged. If your vehicle sits for extended periods — In the garage, in a shop bay, or in seasonal storage — a battery maintainer or trickle charger keeps the charge from depleting over time.
- Have a backup plan. Even a well-maintained battery can fail unexpectedly. A portable jump starter stored in your vehicle means you're never fully at the mercy of a dead battery or a nearby stranger with cables.
Battery Chargers & Jump Starters at Walter's Auto Specialties
We carry a selection of battery chargers and portable jump starters suited for everything from daily drivers to farm equipment and fleet vehicles. Whether you need a compact unit for the glovebox or a heavy-duty charger for the shop, we have options worth looking at.
Browse Battery Chargers & Jump Starters →
A Note on Battery Testing
Battery testing is widely available, we offer it free of charge. We recommend having your battery load-tested (not just voltage-checked) for a more accurate read on its actual condition under starting demands. We'll test your entire system. Starter and Alternator included.
Don't Wait for a Cold Morning to Find Out
The best time to address a marginal battery is before it becomes a problem. October gives you a natural prompt — use it. A little attention now can save a frustrating and potentially costly situation when temperatures drop.
Questions about battery chargers or jump starters? Come on down to 1998 W Hamilton Place in Englewood, or Contact us — we're happy to help point you in the right direction.