Current battery sales in Russia have raised concerns over rapid degradation, according to reports cited by Rossiyskaya Gazeta. The article quotes Ilya Ivansky, who heads the service department at the Fresh automobile market, highlighting a troubling pattern in the durability of new car batteries available today.
Ivansky notes that a typical car battery has an expected lifespan of about five years. This timeline can shorten significantly if drivers forget to switch off the vehicle’s lights and other electrical loads, overcharge the battery, neglect to monitor the vehicle’s on-board voltage, or permit electrolyte contamination. Such factors accelerate wear and can lead to early failures, leaving owners stranded and wallets lighter much sooner than anticipated.
The expert adds that the fragility of modern batteries is partly tied to the way many purchases are made. With a growing tendency to shop online, consumers may end up choosing parts from unknown manufacturers. The risk is not only receiving a non-original spare part but potentially encountering a product marketed as new that does not meet original specifications or performance standards.
Separately, an automotive analyst commented on antifreeze products sold along roadways. Methanol-based anti-ice liquids are sometimes offered for windshield wash reservoirs, but specialists warn that these should not be substituted without caution. In contrast, formulations based on ethanol or isopropyl alcohol may fail to meet certain performance criteria for winter conditions and vehicle protection in some markets.
Industry experts point out that methanol-containing antifreeze fluids have been used in northern Europe and in parts of North America, including areas with extreme winter temperatures reaching around minus 40 degrees Celsius. This regional practice underscores the importance of verifying the composition and suitability of any antifreeze or wash liquid before use in cold climates, especially in vehicles operated in very cold regions.
There have also been developments in the tire industry, with recent reports indicating that Ikon Tires production activities began at a factory formerly associated with Nokian Tires, located in the Leningrad region. Such shifts in manufacturing sites can influence product availability, pricing, and perceived reliability among consumers who rely on trusted brands for winter driving.
For drivers across North America, these insights emphasize practical steps to safeguard vehicle performance. First, confirm that batteries and electrical systems meet the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications, and consider professional testing to assess charge retention, voltage stability, and electrolyte health. Regular maintenance checks can help detect subtle signs of aging, such as slower cranking during starts, unusual electrical drain, or voltage fluctuations, before a roadside emergency occurs. Second, exercise caution when purchasing automotive components online. Rely on reputable retailers, verify manufacturer credentials, and consult independent reviews or technical data to distinguish original parts from imitation or substandard alternatives. Third, when handling antifreeze, windshield cleaners, or other fluids intended for extreme temperatures, rely on products approved for automotive use and sourced from recognized brands. If a vehicle operates in regions with bitterly cold winters, following the manufacturer’s guidelines and local regulations ensures safer operation and preserves warranty protections. Finally, stay informed about tire choices by consulting official brand materials or authorized distributors to ensure that replacements meet the vehicle’s size, load rating, and performance requirements for winter conditions. Adhering to these best practices can help maintain reliability and safety across North American driving environments, even amid changes in manufacturing and distribution landscapes.