They work fine in warm weather but fall flat when the temperature turns cold. One dealer replaced my ignition switch and another my starter, with no results. I bought a voltmeter that allows me to monitor the charging voltage while driving and determined the charging rate was indeed low when all of the accessories were operating. I have since installed a new aftermarket voltage regulator and am now charging 15-16 volts, yet on really cold mornings the battery voltage still reads lower than normal. I bought a battery charger, but it is really inconvenient to run an extension cord from my condo's bedroom window, so I have resorted to carrying one of those portable battery jump-start packs in the trunk of my car.
Any suggestions are welcome.
It was not coincidental that your battery saga corresponded with your two-mile commute pattern. A battery needs about 20 minutes of continuous, high engine rpm to completely recharge after the starter has drained it. Your Florida commute provided that. What your battery is being subjected to is a constant cycle of discharge from the starter motor and partial recharge, with the battery getting weaker each time. The weather is also a player here.