For the 2nd winter in a row, my 2003 Toyota RAV4 has trouble starting once the temperature dips below 35 degrees. It will eventually start after I turn the headlights on and off a few times (typically it takes about 10 minutes to start in the morning). I had a new battery installed less than 12 months ago, and I've had the Toyota dealership look at it 2 times last winter. Other than the new battery, they didn't see any issues. Any idea what might be causing this?

10

Asked by kmsRAV4 Nov 30, 2015 at 11:08 AM about the 2003 Toyota RAV4

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

4 Answers

If you have really cold weather you may want to install a block heater. You can also install a battery heater to help the battery have more power. How cold does it get in the winter where you are?

If you have really cold weather you may want to install a block heater. You can also install a battery heater to help the battery have more power. How cold does it get in the winter where you are? A tune up may help as well.

10

Full_of_Regrets thank you!! That may be the answer -- I'll look into that option. I live in the Northeast, so temps typically don't drop much lower than 30 degrees - but you never know what the winter will bring.

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Being in Southern California , I have very little experience with your low temps. But I would also give the electrical lines (Batt.,Spark plug etc.) and connecters a going over for any cracks or corrosion.

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