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Should You Check Your GMC Battery Before Winter?

GMC service technician checking a battery

Scheduling GMC service is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your vehicle and keep it driving smoothly and safely for many more rides to come. It’s especially important to get your vehicle serviced before winter so you’ll be protected through the coldest months of the year. Learn why you’ll want to schedule battery service for winter at McGuire Buick GMC. 

Winter Driving and Battery Health

One of the most important service tasks you’ll want to schedule before the cold weather hits is a battery inspection. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can affect a battery’s capacity. You want to get your battery checked before the temperatures drop, so you know if it needs to be replaced. At 0°F, a vehicle battery may deliver only about 50% of its rated capacity, while the engine requires more energy to start, increasing the risk of leaving your vehicle stranded. If you drive infrequently, it’s also smart to run your vehicle for at least 20 to 30 minutes per week in cold conditions. If the car sits for longer, consider using a battery maintainer for protection. 

Signs Your Battery Needs Service

It’s also important to be able to recognize signs that your vehicle needs battery service between appointments. Here are a few to look for: 

  • Your vehicle is slow to turn over or fails to turn over
  • Interior accessories and lights are dim 
  • There is visible corrosion to the battery
  • You smell sulfur or rotten eggs
  • Your battery is older than three to five years

Schedule GMC Battery Service in Little Falls, NJ

No matter what your battery or winter service needs may be, you’ll find the support you deserve at McGuire Buick GMC. We’re here to match drivers with the perfect vehicle for the road ahead, and to provide the service that makes the difference. Visit today for winter car care you can count on. 


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