What Causes a Car Battery to Suddenly Die in Winter
1 Answers
Here are the reasons why a car battery may suddenly die in winter: 1. Engine damage: This can occur due to loose or broken alternator belts, preventing the alternator from functioning. The alternator contains a rectifier - instantaneous high current can burn out its diodes. There are also carbon brushes and slip rings; excessive wear on the carbon brushes leads to poor contact. Additionally, stator coil issues like short circuits or open circuits will stop the alternator from working. Rotor coils may also experience open or short circuits, preventing power generation. Furthermore, broken charging circuits or loose connections can cause the car battery to discharge without recharging, resulting in a dead battery. 2. Insufficient electrolyte or leakage: During normal use, a car battery's electrolyte naturally evaporates and depletes. Therefore, regular maintenance should include checking electrolyte levels, which should remain between the maximum and minimum marks. Insufficient electrolyte naturally leads to inadequate battery charge. When low, only battery electrolyte or distilled water should be added - no other liquids should be used. However, most modern vehicles now use maintenance-free batteries where electrolyte loss is minimal; if levels are low, the entire battery must be replaced.