Winter snow and ice not only make travel challenging but also pose significant risks to vehicle safety and performance. Driving on snow-covered roads requires not only higher driving skills but also careful attention to the vehicle’s condition.
Many vehicle owners may not realize that icy weather can damage multiple components of their vehicles and even shorten their lifespan. Therefore, understanding and following proper winter car care tips is crucial for ensuring driving safety and vehicle health.
<b>1. Tire Maintenance</b>
Winter tires are specifically designed with rubber compounds and tread patterns optimized for cold weather and snowy roads, which can significantly improve a vehicle’s grip in low temperatures and slippery conditions.
If you live in an area where it frequently snows during winter, switching to snow tires is highly recommended. Compared to summer or all-season tires, winter tires provide better traction, reducing the risk of skidding on icy roads.
Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, and under-inflated tires can negatively impact handling, and fuel efficiency, and increase wear. Therefore, car owners should regularly check tire pressure to ensure it is within the manufacturer’s recommended range. Especially before setting out in snowy weather, checking tire pressure is an essential step.
<b>2. Engine and Battery Maintenance</b>
In low temperatures, engine oil becomes thicker, making the engine harder to start and reducing lubrication efficiency.
To minimize engine damage, it is advisable to let the engine warm up after starting the vehicle, allowing the oil to fully lubricate engine components before driving. Additionally, avoid high RPMs when starting and accelerate gradually to protect the engine.
Cold weather significantly reduces a battery’s capacity and starting ability, particularly in older or weak batteries, which may struggle to provide enough power in freezing conditions. It is recommended that vehicle owners regularly check the battery’s condition, especially before a cold snap. If the battery is over 3-5 years old, consider replacing it early to avoid the inconvenience of a car that won’t start on a snowy day.
<b>3. Coolant and Antifreeze</b>
Antifreeze not only prevents the cooling system from freezing in winter but also protects against corrosion and rust, safeguarding the engine’s cooling system.
Before winter arrives, vehicle owners should check the antifreeze’s freezing point to ensure it can function properly at the lowest local temperatures. If the antifreeze level is low or the freezing point is too high, it should be replenished or replaced promptly.
Coolant is equally important in winter, especially when starting the car after long periods of parking. Insufficient coolant can cause the engine to overheat, potentially leading to damage. Before winter driving, owners should check the coolant level to ensure it’s within the proper range and that the coolant concentration is suitable for winter conditions.
<b>4. Brake System and ABS</b>
Winter driving places higher demands on the braking system, as icy roads can cause skidding and increase braking distances. In these conditions, the condition of brake discs and pads becomes particularly crucial.
Before winter arrives, vehicle owners should inspect all components of the braking system to ensure they are functioning properly. After rainy or snowy weather, promptly clear snow and dirt from the brake discs to maintain effective braking.
On icy roads, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) helps prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain control of the vehicle. During winter, it’s essential to ensure that the ABS is functioning correctly. If the ABS warning light comes on, the system should be checked and repaired immediately.
10 Essential Winter Car Preparation Tips you NEED to Know
Video by CashedOutCars
While winter weather can be beautiful, it presents significant challenges for vehicles. When driving in winter, car owners must remain vigilant and perform thorough preparation and maintenance. Only by ensuring the vehicle is in good condition can they drive safely on snow-covered roads and avoid accidents.
