In cold winter environments, engine starters often experience difficulty or failure due to reduced battery performance, increased oil viscosity, and higher electrical resistance. Based on research in the automotive engineering field, this article thoroughly analyzes the impact of low temperatures on the performance of the engine starter, and proposes targeted, science-based protection strategies to help vehicle owners enhance winter reliability and extend the engine starter’s service life.
I. Why Do Engine Starters Fail in Low Temperatures?
1. Battery Performance Drops
At low temperatures, the chemical reaction rate inside the battery significantly slows down, leading to a sharp decrease in voltage output and available capacity. Studies show that when the ambient temperature drops from room temperature to -18°C, the usable capacity of conventional lead-acid batteries may decrease by 40–60%. Insufficient voltage directly affects the speed and torque output of the engine starter, often resulting in slow cranking or failure to start.
2. Increased Oil Viscosity
A sharp drop in temperature causes engine oil to become more viscous, increasing internal resistance. For example, common 5W-30 oil at -20°C can have more than 10 times the viscosity it has at room temperature. This means the engine starter must overcome greater mechanical resistance, which puts it under high load and accelerates wear or even burnout.
3. Increased Electrical Resistance
In cold weather, the resistance of conductive materials such as copper slightly increases. If the connectors are oxidized or loose, resistance increases further, leading to voltage loss. Some studies indicate that copper conductors can have up to 15% higher resistance in extremely cold environments. This further reduces engine starter efficiency and can lead to local overheating or electrical failures.
4. Water Condensation Causing Short Circuits
Moisture in the engine compartment may condense into water droplets under low temperatures and infiltrate the engine starter or its terminals, potentially causing corrosion of metal components or electrical short circuits. In severe cases, this may result in the engine starter burning out or even creating safety hazards.
II. Practical Protection Measures for Cold Weather
1. Choose a Battery with Excellent Cold Performance
It is recommended to use batteries with a high Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating. For instance, AGM-type batteries maintain higher voltage output in cold climates. For extremely cold regions, consider using a model with a CCA rating about 20% higher than the original battery.
2. Use Fully Synthetic Low-Viscosity Oil
Following the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations, switch to oils like 0W-20 or 0W-30, which offer better low-temperature performance. This can significantly reduce cold-start resistance, lessen the load on the engine starter, and improve overall engine efficiency.
3. Install a Starter Preheater (Optional)
For users in very cold climates, consider installing an electric heating device to preheat the engine starter and surrounding components to above 0°C. This effectively reduces friction losses and the risk of startup failure. A heating power of 50–100W is recommended, and installation should avoid flammable areas and ensure safety.
4. Regularly Inspect Electrical Connections
It is advised to inspect the battery and engine starter terminals every 6 months. Remove oxidation, gently polish contacts with sandpaper, and apply conductive grease to improve connectivity and prevent abnormal starts due to poor contact.
III. Engine Starter Replacement and Selection Guide
1. Common Failure Symptoms
The engine starter may need replacement if you notice the following signs:
·Only a “click” sound is heard during startup, with no engine response
·Cranking speed is low and takes significantly longer to start
·The engine starter casing becomes unusually hot or emits a burnt smell
·Intermittent start failures occur
2. How to Select the Right Engine Starter
When replacing, consider these key technical parameters:
·Voltage rating (commonly 12V or 24V)
·Power (kW) and torque output (Nm)
·Gear tooth count and gear ratio
·Mounting hole positions and structural dimensions
We recommend choosing engine starters certified by the ISO/TS 16949 quality management system to ensure reliability and compatibility. If you're unsure how to match the correct model, please consult a professional technician.
Conclusion
Cold weather poses significant challenges to a vehicle’s starting system. Understanding the causes of engine starter failure and adopting proper protection and quality replacement components can significantly improve winter driving reliability. We are committed to delivering professional-grade, high-reliability engine starters to support your safe and efficient cold-weather driving.
If you need installation advice, model selection, or wholesale support, feel free to contact our technical support team anytime.
References
GB/T 7714：Andrew D, Schuster S A. Cold weather starting problems[R]. SAE Technical Paper, 1974.
MLA：Andrew, Douglas, and Stephen A. Schuster. Cold weather starting problems. No. 740545. SAE Technical Paper, 1974.
APA：Andrew, D., & Schuster, S. A. (1974). Cold weather starting problems (No. 740545). SAE Technical Paper.
