jz1122

Hi I have a 4cyl 2003 Honda Accord. It had been starting up fine until it goit really cold and started to snow in this past week. It was turning over but not catching yesterday. I tried again today and it is not even turning over anymore.
What should I do? I have been told about a block engine heater to help start up on cold days. Thanks!

redbull-1

Probably the battery. Try to get the car jump started. You may just need a new battery if the current battery has never been replaced or find another battery with higher Cold Cranking Amp (CCA). A block heater is good for very freezing areas too. Most batteries last about 3 - 5 years. If you are lucky and have a good battery, sometimes longer.

http://www.autobatteries.com/faq/index.asp

jz1122

I just got the battery replaced this summer. About 6 months old. The lights and radio still work. Just cant start up

BLKFLSH

I would have the battery load tested. If the battery is bad, and has a warranty, you can take it back.

redbull-1

Even if the light and radio works, the battery may just need a little help right now to start it. Try to get it jump started. If it starts, drive for around 20 minutes or more to let the alternator recharge the battery.

jz1122

What do you think about block heaters? Good idea or not?

redbull-1

A block heater is good for very cold areas. Your problem sounds like the battery right now though.

BLKFLSH

The block heater can help the engine, and the battery last longer by reducing cold starts. It may be too late for this battery though. Does the place you bought the battery from test them?

jz1122

I bought it in Boston but im in New York for college right now. Should I try to jumpstart the car and recharge the battery?

jz1122

The car was turning on fine earlier this week. before it got sub-30 and snowed

BLKFLSH

Cold weather kills batteries. Yes, if you can jump it, run the engine for a while to charge it. Not saying it is definitely the battery. It could be just loose connections/cables. Testing the battery doesn't cost anything, so it's cheap to rule that out. If you can jump it, the battery is likely the problem, but test it to be sure.

verycooljdm

battery, battery does not like cold weather!

jz1122

tried jump starting today. battery read 60%. did not turn over at all, not even close...what should i do?

redbull-1

Your problem probably still is the battery. Sounds like it is significantly discharged. You may have to leave the vehicle you are getting the jump from running for little awhile with the jumper cables attached, and even revving the other vehicle's engine a little to help bring your battery's cranking power up. Don't try to start your car until your battery is given a little time to get a little more juice during the jump.

Otherwise, try a new battery.

jz1122

tried jumping 3 times with 3 different battery packs from mechanics. i am hearing one click when i try to crank the engine. might be starter issue