Cold temperatures affect cars in different ways. You need to pay attention to these potential problems with your car in order to prevent them.
Tires
The usual rubber compound in regular tires hardens as the temperature goes down, this can cause them to lose grip. On the other hand, winter tires have a softer and sticker compound which makes them more suitable for these cold months.
Oil
The oil in your motor will most likely thicken, which can cause the engine to struggle during the first start of the day. Furthermore, the battery output drops considerably with colder temperatures. For this reason, it is always important to keep your car inside whenever possible. It is also recommended not to use the intro heat right away, as this makes the engine and battery work harder.
Engine
Your engine will run least efficiently during the first 15 mins after a cold start-up. This causes water vapor to build inside the motor and exhaust system. If you are not careful enough, and you don’t let the engine warm-up, the vehicle may never burn off the vapor which can cause rust on the exhaust system, despite low mileage.
Windshield
Make sure you get alcohol sprays to defrost your windshield. If you use hot water, your windshield may crack. Blasting mega-hot air from your car defroster can also crack a frozen windshield.
Fuel Lines
The fuel lines that lead to the fuel tank can freeze. But a fuel tank that is at least half full will protect you from that (and help your transmission). Condensation forms in the empty part of your gas tank, which is fine during the warmer months, but when your car is cold, the condensation can freeze, the fuel lines ice up, and suddenly you can’t start your car.
if you get your car in tip-top shape before the winter comes, you will at least be able to contain the costs. Not only for fuel but for every other part of your car, as well.
