Canadian winters can be rough—not just on vehicles and homes, but also on kids’ ride-on toys. If your child owns a Power Wheels vehicle, knowing how to properly store a power wheels 12 volt battery during winter is extremely important. Cold temperatures can reduce battery performance, shorten its lifespan, and in some cases cause permanent damage.
This guide is designed for parents and caregivers who want clear, practical advice on how to protect Power Wheels batteries during long Canadian winters. Based on real-world experience, manufacturer guidance, and proven battery care practices, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Why Canadian Winters Are Hard on Power Wheels Batteries
How Cold Temperatures Affect 12 Volt Batteries
Most Power Wheels vehicles use sealed lead-acid (SLA) 12 volt batteries. These batteries depend on chemical reactions to produce power. When temperatures drop, those reactions slow down. In extreme cold—such as -20°C, which is common in many parts of Canada—a battery can lose up to half of its usable capacity.
Many parents notice that a Power Wheels car stored all winter in a garage either won’t run in spring or only works for a few minutes. This isn’t a defect—it’s a direct result of cold exposure.
The Risk of Permanent Battery Damage
If a power wheels 12 volt battery is left discharged in freezing temperatures, the liquid electrolyte inside can freeze. This can damage internal plates, cause swelling, or crack the battery casing. Once this happens, the battery usually cannot be repaired.
When and Why You Should Remove the Battery for Winter
What Manufacturers and Experts Recommend
Manufacturers like Fisher-Price and Peg Perego recommend removing ride-on toy batteries before long-term storage. These guidelines are similar to those used for mobility scooters and backup power systems.
From hands-on experience, families who remove and store batteries indoors almost always get several more seasons of use compared to those who leave batteries in cold garages.
Best Time to Remove the Battery
The ideal time to remove the battery is before temperatures consistently fall below freezing—usually between late October and early November in most Canadian regions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Store Power Wheels Battery in Winter
Step 1: Fully Charge the Battery
Before storing the battery, give it a full charge using the original or manufacturer-approved charger. A fully charged battery is far less likely to freeze.
Step 2: Disconnect the Battery Safely
Turn off the vehicle, unplug the battery connector, and carefully remove the battery. Always hold the connector itself rather than pulling on the wires.
Step 3: Clean and Inspect
Wipe the battery casing with a dry cloth. Look for cracks, corrosion, or bulging. If you notice any damage, replacing the battery is safer than storing it.
Step 4: Choose a Proper Storage Location
Store the battery indoors in a dry, temperature-controlled space such as a basement, storage room, or closet. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources like furnaces or fireplaces. The ideal storage temperature is between 10°C and 25°C.
Step 5: Recharge Periodically
To prevent deep discharge, recharge the battery every 4–6 weeks during winter. Many parents find it helpful to set a reminder on their phone or calendar.
Best Storage Locations: What Works and What Doesn’t
Recommended Indoor Storage Areas
- Heated basements
- Interior closets
- Climate-controlled utility rooms
Places You Should Avoid
- Unheated garages
- Outdoor sheds
- Balconies or porches
- Areas near heaters or open flames
Leaving a Power Wheels battery in a cold garage is one of the most common—and expensive—mistakes parents make.
Real-World Example: Battery Lifespan Comparison
Indoor Storage vs Garage Storage
In a small comparison among families in Ontario, those who stored their batteries indoors and charged them monthly reported battery lifespans of three to four years. Families who left batteries in garages often needed replacements after just one or two winters.
This reflects wider battery industry findings that temperature control plays a major role in extending lead-acid battery life.
Common Winter Storage Mistakes to Avoid
Storing a Discharged Battery
A discharged battery freezes more easily and develops internal damage. Always store the battery fully charged.
Leaving the Charger Plugged In All Winter
Continuous charging can dry out the battery and reduce its lifespan. Periodic charging is safer and more effective.
Using the Wrong Charger
Non-compatible chargers can undercharge or overheat the battery, increasing safety risks and shortening battery life.
Should You Replace the Battery Instead of Storing It?
When Replacement Is the Better Option
If your battery already struggles to hold a charge, winter storage won’t reverse existing wear. In these cases, replacing the power wheels 12 volt battery in spring may be the smarter choice.
Signs Your Battery May Need Replacing
- Very short run time
- Noticeable slowing when driving
- Failure to hold a charge even after proper storage
Getting the Battery Ready for Spring
Final Checks Before Reinstallation
Before reinstalling the battery, give it a full charge and inspect the connectors. Clean off any dust or debris from the terminals.
Test the Vehicle First
Run a short test drive to make sure everything works smoothly. This helps avoid disappointment when your child is ready to ride.
Conclusion: Simple Winter Storage Makes a Big Difference
A Power Wheels vehicle is more than just a toy—it’s part of childhood memories. Taking the time to properly store a power wheels 12 volt battery during Canadian winters can save money, reduce waste, and keep the fun going year after year.
By removing the battery, storing it indoors, and maintaining a simple charging routine, you’ll ensure that when warmer weather returns, your child’s ride-on toy is ready to go.
Need a replacement battery or a compatible charger? Always choose quality, safety-tested products designed for Power Wheels vehicles and follow manufacturer recommendations for the best results.
FAQs
1. Should I remove the Power Wheels 12-volt battery during winter storage?
Yes. Removing the battery and storing it indoors helps protect it from freezing temperatures and significantly extends its lifespan.
2. What temperature is best for storing a Power Wheels battery in winter?
A stable indoor temperature between 10°C and 25°C is ideal. Avoid freezing spaces like unheated garages or sheds.
3. How often should I charge a Power Wheels battery during winter?
A maintenance charge every 4–6 weeks is recommended to prevent the battery from fully discharging while in storage.
4. Can a frozen Power Wheels battery be fixed?
Unfortunately, no. Once a lead-acid battery freezes, the internal damage is usually permanent and replacement is necessary.
5. Is it safe to store a Power Wheels battery inside the house?
Yes, as long as it’s kept in a dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and direct sunlight.