Starting your car in cold weather

A good start: in less than 10 seconds!

Any attempt to start your car shouldn’t last more than 8 to 10 seconds. It’s not starting? Wait a good 30 seconds, then try again while keeping the accelerator fully depressed. Doing so optimizes the air-fuel mixture needed to start your car without the risk of flooding the engine, as in the previous attempt. After four unsuccessful attempts, each with a 30-second pause in between, you’re better off giving up and resorting to roadside assistance. 

But not to end up in this unpleasant situation, there are some actions to be taken that could allow you to start your engine, even in the coldest weather. Here they are.

The block heater: plug in your car for an easier start

A block heater is an invaluable ally for dealing with cold weather in Quebec. In addition to helping warm up the car’s interior more quickly, it ensures the main engine components maintain an ideal temperature for cold-weather starting. In addition, using a block heater saves fuel on the first 20 kilometres of a trip. A pre-warmed engine allows the oil to circulate better and faster. This reduces friction between moving parts as well as fuel consumption.

Plugging in your car for three hours is sufficient to provide all of these benefits. The cost of a block heater varies between $50 and $200 and installation can cost between $100 and $350. Note: installation can be negotiated when buying a vehicle. Think about it the next time you visit a dealership.

For electric vehicles, you can program your car’s cabin heating when it’s plugged in. You’ll be able to increase your range and take to the road safely, with your windows properly defrosted!

Synthetic oil: essential in cold weather

Synthetic oil is a little more expensive than mineral oil, but it’s well worth the cost in winter. It retains its properties better than mineral oil, whose texture becomes like molasses when the mercury drops below zero. In cold weather, it’s therefore better to use synthetic oil to ensure an easier start. When making an appointment to install your winter tires, take the opportunity to have an oil change done as well, making sure to follow your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.

Your car battery: not to be neglected!

At -30°C, the battery only has 25% of its maximum energy capacity to start the car, and this is when it’s in top condition! The technological devices found in today’s vehicles place a heavy demand on batteries, which probably explains why their average life is around four years. Get yourself a quality battery and don’t let any corrosion (the famous verdigris) form on its terminals. Corrosion between the terminals and the battery cable could affect the flow of energy needed to start the engine. To avoid having to get towed, unplug the battery and clean the contacts at the first sign of corrosion. Don’t hesitate to enlist the services of an expert for help.

Fuel and your battery: don’t take a chance!

It’s never advisable to drive on an almost-empty tank, especially in cold weather. This increases the risk of condensation in the tank. The gas could then freeze in the lines and damage the fuel pump. If you own an electric car, make sure your battery is fully charged before you hit the road and take time to charge it before the energy reserve gets too low. This will decrease charging time, especially if you’re using a fast-charge station (DCFC).

Note: Since each car model has its own particular features, it’s best to consult the owner’s manual.