In the summer heat, even a battery that is 70% degraded can turn over an engine without any issues, raising no suspicions. However, as soon as the temperature drops below freezing, engine oil thickens, and the starter requires double the current, while the battery's chemical capacity drops by half. The result: on the first morning at -5°C, the starter produces nothing more than a tired "click-click."
To avoid being stranded at your own doorstep, you can easily and accurately check the health of your battery yourself using a simple multimeter costing as little as 10 euros.
Resting Voltage Test (Engine Off)
Take the measurement in the morning before the first start of the day (the car should have been stationary for at least 6-8 hours). Set your multimeter to DC Voltage (20V) and touch the probes to the battery terminals (red to +, black to -):
- 12.6V - 12.8V: 100% charged; the battery is in excellent condition.
- 12.4V - 12.5V: Approximately 75% charged; it is recommended to perform a preventative charge with a battery charger.
- 12.1V - 12.3V: Only 50% charge level. Starting a diesel engine at -10°C will be very problematic.
- Below 12.0V: The battery is discharged or sulfated. Urgent restoration or replacement is required.
If your battery unexpectedly fails and your car refuses to start, our team provides prompt service - professional jump-starting and battery charging using high-capacity 12V/24V boosters, performed within minutes.