Have you noticed that your car doesn’t crank over as fast as it used to do when you turn the key to start the engine? Before, the starter turned so fast that the engine caught and started to run almost immediately. Now, when you turn the key, it sounds like the engine is soaking in a tub of molasses.

Yes, the cold weather of winter has something to do with that. When it’s cold out, the oil is thicker. It takes more effort for the starter to turn an engine with thick oil. But, there’s a chance that it’s more than just the thicker oil.

How strong is your battery? That’s the question. And if your battery is five-years old or more, there’s a good chance the answer is ‘not all that strong anymore.’

The cold weather, and that thicker oil, will test the strength of any battery. Older batteries are more likely to fail that test and five years is a milestone few batteries pass with flying colors.

It’s not a bad idea to have your charging system checked each fall, too. The charging system includes the battery, the alternator, the ECU (electrical control unit) and related wiring. Checking the charging system should also include checking the starter. A properly operating starter will require a certain amount of cranking amps and volts. If the starter draws too many of these, it’s time to change the starter. But, starters wear out far less frequently than batteries.

Assuming your starter and charging system are working properly, a good battery should start the car even in bitterly cold temperatures. Those same cold temperatures can easily push a weak battery over the edge.

Rather than wait to see if your battery and charging system are up to the test of winter, a qualified auto repair shop can let you know in advance. It’s often terribly inconvenient to discover your car won’t start. Maybe you have to go to work or to drop the kids off at school. You might have to run to the store to pick up a few things for company that’s coming over tonight. When the car won’t start, your plans tend to change.

Whatever the case, if you find that the car won’t start, you’ve made that discovery because you wanted it to start. Testing your battery and charging system in advance helps you to avoid that discovery at inconvenient moments.