Ever turned the key on a winter morning… and heard nothing but a faint click?

You’re not alone. Cape Town’s winter might not be Arctic-level cold, but the combo of chilly nights, rain-drenched mornings, and damp air takes a real toll on your vehicle, especially your battery.

And that sluggish start? It’s your car crying out for help. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you beat winter before it beats your battery.

So, why does winter hate your battery?

It’s not personal, but it’s definitely seasonal.

When temperatures drop, your battery’s chemical reactions slow down. That means reduced current output, which your engine needs more of when it’s cold and stiff from overnight chills.

Plus, heaters, fog lights, wipers—all those wintertime must-haves—place extra demand on an already struggling battery.

Here’s what happens in cold weather:

• Capacity drops. A fully charged battery might deliver 100% power in summer, but that could dip to 60% or less in winter.
• Starting gets harder. Cold engines are thicker with oil and need more cranking power.
• Charging slows down. Short trips in winter don’t give alternators enough time to recharge your battery.
• Batteries already nearing end-of-life will often fail entirely.

And when that happens? You’re stuck. Rain or shine.

Look out for the red flags—before you’re stranded

Your battery won’t just give up without warning. It usually sends out subtle cries for help first. You just have to know how to listen.

Here’s what to look for:

• Sluggish starts. If your engine sounds like it’s turning over in slow motion, that’s your first warning.
• Dimming lights. When your headlights flicker or fade as you start the car.
• Warning lights. That battery-shaped symbol on your dash? Don’t ignore it.
• Electronics acting up. Random errors in the radio, GPS, or even electric windows.
• Age. If it’s been more than 2–3 years, it’s already on borrowed time.

Better to catch it early than be surprised in the rain, right?

A little prevention saves a lot of pain (and towing fees)

Think of battery care like brushing your teeth—you can ignore it for a while, but eventually it’ll cost you.

Here’s how to avoid getting caught out this winter:

• Pop in for a battery test. At Deltec, we’ll give it a quick once-over—no pressure, just peace of mind.
• Keep terminals clean. A bit of corrosion can interrupt power flow and mimic battery failure.
• Watch your usage. Try not to blast heaters and lights before your engine’s fully running.
• Limit short trips. They don’t give your alternator time to top up the battery.
• Know your battery’s age. If it’s pushing 3 years, get a backup plan.

Still not sure? That’s what we’re here for.

Our Winter Sale has your battery’s back

This winter, Deltec Batteries is running a Limited-Time Winter Sale with up to 30% off select batteries. These deals are designed to keep Cape Town’s drivers moving, without breaking the bank.

You’ll find savings on top performers like:

• Deltec 658AGM – built for vehicles with high electronic loads and stop-start systems.
• Deltec 668B – a heavy-duty option for high-capacity needs.
• Deltec 12.8V 100Ah Lithium – perfect for camping, solar backup, and overlanding setups.
• Deltec 51.2V 100Ah Lithium – reliable, long-lasting energy for off-grid and backup systems.

Want a deal that’s as good as your morning coffee? These battery specials are available in Bellville and Tokai, but only while stocks last.

Let’s talk off-road and power prep

If you’re the type who’s packing up the Hilux, Jimny, or Ranger for a muddy mountain mission, you need more than just a good battery—you need a whole winter-proof rig.

Start with:

• A secondary battery system powered by the trusted Deltec 1250 High-Cycle Battery.
• Front Runner roof racks and under-rack table kits for space and style.
• 12.8V 100Ah Lithium Batteries for lightweight, dependable off-grid power.

We’ll help fit it all at our Bellville or Tokai centres. You bring the adventure. We’ll bring the juice.

Cold mornings are tough. Don’t let your battery make them worse.

Here’s the bottom line:

If your vehicle’s battery is older, weak, or just unreliable, winter will expose it. One cold snap is all it takes for a stall that could have been avoided.

So let us help you avoid it.