Freezing temperatures can severely impact car battery performance, as seen in the harsh cold snaps earlier this year in Finland. Teppo Vesalainen, a training manager at the Automobile Association of Finland, warns that even a good battery can be drained by improper usage. One critical issue related to cold weather is that a cold battery struggles to store the power generated by the charger or DC-DC converter effectively.

The dangers of short-distance driving during winter conditions have been highlighted recently. Vesalainen emphasizes that repeatedly driving only short distances, especially while using fuel-burning auxiliary heaters and keeping many electrical devices on during these trips, can deplete even a new battery's charge gradually. As a result, the car may ultimately fail to start, leading to unnecessary inconveniences for drivers.

To prepare against the surprises posed by cold weather, drivers are urged to be more mindful of their vehicle usage, particularly during the winter months. Awareness of how the cold affects battery performance can help prevent the frustration of being unable to start one's vehicle. Taking proactive measures and understanding the conditions that lead to battery drain is key for Finnish drivers during the cold season.