#United States #Chicago #winter weather #CTEK Battery #Vehicle Care

CTEK Issues Warning for Winter Battery Risks

As meteorologists predict a polar vortex, bringing temperatures plummeting to -23°F in several states, CTEK, a leader in battery charging solutions, cautions that nearly half of U.S. vehicles are susceptible to breakdowns. Cold weather severely impacts battery performance, and with many drivers relying on older vehicles, the potential for start failures is alarmingly high.

Steve Hayes, Head of North America Operations at CTEK, highlights that "Cold weather can reduce battery performance by up to 50%." This staggering statistic reveals just how critical it is for drivers to prepare their vehicles for the winter months ahead. Modern cars rely heavily on electronics for features such as door locks, heated seats, and steering wheel controls, all of which demand significant power from the vehicle’s battery.

Moreover, the average age of cars and light trucks on U.S. roads is 12.5 years, while standard car batteries typically last only 3 to 5 years. These older vehicles, combined with winter’s challenges, make battery maintenance increasingly crucial. When parked, a vehicle's battery can lose energy slowly due to onboard systems, leading to a significant reduction in battery life. Short errands—which are more common during the winter months—can exacerbate this issue, as they provide insufficient time for the battery to recharge completely.

Additionally, it is noted that even regular driving falls short; vehicles often only achieve an 80% charge capacity. Given that battery health diminishes at lower temperatures, proactive measures are necessary to avoid becoming stranded due to a dead battery.

CTEK has recommended the CTEK MUS 4.3 Polar battery charger, designed specifically for extreme cold conditions. This charger boasts several features aimed at ensuring vehicle batteries remain in optimal condition, even when the temperatures drop.

Key Features of CTEK MUS 4.3 Polar:

• - Cold Weather Performance: Tailored for harsh winter conditions, ensuring efficient charging even at low temperatures.
• - Advanced Charging Process: Implements a fully automatic eight-step charging approach that enhances battery health and performance.
• - Temperature Compensation: Employs algorithms that adjust charging according to temperature variations, maximizing charging efficiency.
• - Safety Guaranteed: Equipped with features like reverse polarity protection and is spark-free, making it safe for all users.
• - Durability: With water and dust resistance, this charger can withstand various weather conditions, making it suitable for long-term connections.
• - Special Reconditioning Mode: Perfect for reviving deeply discharged batteries, further enhancing its utility during winter months.
• - Compatibility: Works with all 12V lead-acid battery types, ensuring versatility in vehicle applications.

By offering a reliable solution for winter battery maintenance, CTEK provides vehicle owners with confidence during unpredictably frigid conditions. The CTEK MUS 4.3 Polar is not just an accessory; it’s a necessary tool for any driver looking to ensure their vehicle will start reliably—no matter how cold it gets.

CTEK has established itself as a key player in vehicle charging solutions since its inception in Dalarna, Sweden. The company is committed to supporting a transition to greener mobility while maintaining high standards of environmental sustainability. For more information on battery charging innovations and solutions, visit CTEK’s official website.