TEXAS —  A blast of arctic air is headed to Texas beginning on Sunday. It will be a true polar outbreak and may bring the coldest temperatures of the winter.

Temperatures will quickly drop below freezing from north to south Sunday evening. Wind chills will be in the teens and single digits Sunday night.

Most of Texas will be below freezing Monday and Tuesday. As of now, there is a low probability of wintry precipitation.

Those freezing temperatures can put a strain on your car’s battery.

AAA Texas says dead batteries are one of the top service calls it responds to during cold weather snaps. Your battery loses a third of its power in freezing weather.

According to AAA, “as the air outside cools, the oil in your car thickens. Parts move slower and your battery must use more power to turn over and start the engine.”

The first thing to do is to make sure your battery and charging system are in good shape. You should get it checked, especially if your battery is more than three years old. Clean any corrosion from battery posts and cable connections and wipe away dirt and oil deposits on the case, AAA recommended. Make sure all hardware is secure.

Signs your battery is failing include when it doesn’t start immediately or makes a clicking noise when you try to start the ignition. Also, your headlights or interior lights may be dim.

If you drive an electric vehicle, the cold weather can affect that as well. AAA says that as the temperature drops, so too can your electric vehicle's range. 

AAA recommends the following to minimize the chances of a dead battery.

  • Park your car in a garage when possible.
  • Turn off your lights, wipers and heater before you turn off the engine. That will prevent drain on the battery.
  • Unplug phone chargers and USB cables as soon as you turn off the engine.
  • Avoid using the heater for longer than you need to.
  • If you see corrosion on the battery, clean it or have it cleaned by a technician.

It’s also recommended that you keep a heavy blanket in your trunk. You may need it if you break down and need to wait for help.