Brrrr! Winter has arrived.

You dash to the car and fire up the ignition.

Only nothing happens when you press the ignition button. The car lets out a groan and dies.

The discount battery you purchased is letting you know why it came so cheap.

It’s short on cold-cranking amps (CCA) — a crucial factor in frigid temperatures. Without enough of them, you could find yourself stranded in the cold.

What are Cold-Cranking Amps?

Cold-cranking amps (CCA) represent the current a battery can deliver for 30 seconds at 0°F before its voltage drops below 7.2 volts.

That’s a mouthful, but in simpler terms, CCAs measure the battery’s power to start your car in cold weather when the engine oil is thick and less efficient at lubricating.

CCAs differ from regular amps (A) or a battery’s continuous current output. While CCAs measure current for a short burst, regular amps measure sustained current output.

Regular amps are typically higher than CCAs because they measure a battery’s overall power, while CCAs are specific to cold-weather starting conditions.

Why CCAs Matter in Cold Weather

Winter weather places extra strain on your vehicle’s battery.

  • Cold temperatures can slow down the chemical reactions within a battery, reducing its capacity to produce current.
  • Thickened engine oil makes it harder for the engine to turn over.
  • The starter motor requires more current to overcome the increased resistance.

Without enough CCAs, your battery may be unable to supply the necessary power for a successful start.

This can lead to a slow or failed start, stranding you in frigid weather.

A battery with a higher CCA rating ensures that your vehicle has enough power to start, even when the mercury drops.

Example

A study conducted by the Battery Council International found that car batteries lose about 20% of their capacity at 32°F (0°C) and over 50% at -22°F (-30°C). This highlights the importance of sufficient CCAs during winter to prevent unexpected battery failure.

How to Choose the Right CCA for Your Vehicle

1. Climate Considerations

  • Colder climates require a higher CCA rating to compensate for the effects of low temperatures.
  • Warmer climates may not need as high of a CCA rating, but it’s still essential to have one that meets the manufacturer’s recommendations for your vehicle.

2. Vehicle Specifics

  • Larger engines typically require more CCAs to start and, therefore, need a battery with a higher CCA rating.
  • Check your vehicle’s owner manual or consult a mechanic to determine the appropriate CCA for your specific make and model.

3. Use Patterns

  • Frequent short trips can further drain your battery, making higher CCA ratings advantageous, even in moderate climates.
  • Vehicles that sit idle for extended periods may also benefit from a higher CCA rating.

When to Consider Upgrading Your Battery

Here are some signs that your battery may not have enough CCAs:

  • The engine cranks slowly before starting.
  • Lights and accessories dim when attempting to start the car.
  • The vehicle has been parked for over a week, and the weather is freezing.
  • Your current battery is nearing its expected lifespan.

If you experience any of these issues, it may be time to upgrade your battery to one with a higher CCA rating.

It’s always better to be proactive rather than dealing with an unexpected dead battery in the middle of winter.

Maintaining Your Battery for Optimum CCAs

Regular Inspections

  • Check battery terminals for corrosion and clean them to maintain a strong connection.
  • Ensure that the battery is securely mounted to prevent vibrations that can lead to damage.
  • Regularly inspect the battery for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or bulging.

Proper Charging

  • Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for charging your battery to ensure it reaches total capacity.
  • Avoid overcharging, which can damage the battery and decrease the overall CCA rating.
  • Consider investing in a battery maintainer to keep your battery charged during inactivity.

Temperature Awareness

  • Protect your battery from extreme temperatures by parking in a garage or using a battery blanket.
  • Avoid leaving your vehicle sitting for extended periods in extreme weather conditions.

Replacing When Necessary

  • Track your battery’s age and replace it before it reaches its expected lifespan, even if it works fine.
  • If you notice any warning signs listed above, consider replacing the battery sooner rather than later.

Tip

A voltmeter can be a worthwhile investment. A reading below 12.4 volts indicates that your battery may need maintenance or replacement soon.

FAQs about Cold Cranking Amps

Q: Can I use a battery with a higher CCA than recommended?

Yes, using a battery with higher CCAs is generally safe and can provide extra assurance in cold weather. However, the physical size and terminal configuration should match your vehicle.

Q: What happens if I use a battery with lower CCAs than needed?

Using a battery with insufficient CCAs can make starting your vehicle difficult in cold weather, potentially leaving you stranded in harsh conditions.

Q: How do I find the CCA rating my car requires?

Your vehicle’s owner’s manual provides the recommended CCA rating. You can also check the label on your current battery for its specifications.

Q: Do CCAs affect battery lifespan?

While the CCA rating doesn’t directly influence lifespan, the strain of starting an engine in demanding conditions can shorten a battery’s life.

Q: Does a higher CCA rating mean a better battery?

Not necessarily. While a higher CCA rating benefits cold-weather starts, it doesn’t always equate to a better battery overall. Factors like reserve capacity (RC) and durability under specific conditions should also be considered.

Q: Can extreme heat affect my battery’s CCA performance?

Extreme heat can damage your battery by evaporating electrolytes and accelerating wear, weakening its ability to deliver high CCAs in cold weather. Proper maintenance and protection from excessive heat can help preserve your battery’s performance.

Q: Is it possible to test the CCAs of my battery at home?

Testing CCAs at home requires a battery load or conductance tester. This tool can measure your battery’s performance under simulated starting conditions. If you’re unsure, many auto shops and battery retailers offer testing services.

Q: How does a deep cycle battery differ from a regular battery in terms of CCAs?

Deep cycle batteries are designed to provide sustained power over a longer period and typically have lower CCA ratings than regular starting batteries. They’re better suited for applications like marine or RV use, where extended discharge cycles are typical rather than quick, high-current demands for starting engines.