Britain is waking up to a bitterly cold start to 2026, with snow and ice warnings expected to last throughout the week. Road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is urging drivers to prepare their vehicles now to avoid costly and potentially dangerous cold weather breakdowns.
Freezing temperatures can have a serious impact on car batteries. At 0°C, a vehicle battery can lose more than a third of its power, slowing everything from engine ignition to the electrical systems that keep headlights, heaters, wipers, and infotainment systems running smoothly.
Electric Vehicles Are Not Immune
Even electric vehicles feel the chill. Low temperatures slow the chemical reactions in EV batteries, reducing the available range from a full charge. Using the heater or defrosters further drains power, making pre-trip preparation essential. GEM recommends warming the cabin and battery while the car is still plugged in to preserve range and performance.
James Luckhurst, GEM’s head of road safety, emphasises the importance of early checks. “Cold weather puts real strain on a car’s 12-volt battery, and its ability to hold a charge drops significantly as temperatures fall,” he said. “Batteries rarely last beyond five years, so if yours is getting old, don’t wait until it fails. A quick check or replacement now could save you the inconvenience – and potential danger – of being stranded at the roadside.”
Warning Signs Your Battery May Be Failing
- The engine struggles to turn over, or you hear a low whirring sound when starting.
- No sound at all, which could indicate a complete loss of charge or poor connection.
- Remote central locking or key fob stops working, a common sign of a flat battery.
If Your Car Won’t Start
If you have access to another vehicle and a set of quality jump leads, you may be able to jump-start your car safely. Always follow the owner manuals for both vehicles to avoid damage. Once the engine is running, allow both vehicles to idle for a few minutes before carefully disconnecting the leads.
Tips for EV Drivers
- Ensure your vehicle is fully charged before long trips.
- Use pre-conditioning features to warm the cabin and battery while plugged in.
- Allow extra time and charging for journeys during sub-zero conditions.
Prevention is always better than cure, says GEM. “Many garages and automotive centres offer free battery health checks, which can tell you if your battery is charging and holding power safely,” adds Luckhurst. “With freezing weather forecast to continue, it’s well worth taking a few minutes now to check, before you’re left out in the cold.”
