Learn more about how winter affects your car and how to smoothly keep it running all year.
Introduction
Winter brings new challenges when it comes to keeping your car running correctly. Everything in your car works a little more complicated in the cold weather, from the battery to the brakes. Here are some of the most common ways winter affects your vehicle.
The 10 most common car noises and what they mean
- The “ping” noise you hear when the airbag deploys is a severe warning. If the sound continues or sounds like it’s coming from the car’s engine area, take it to a mechanic immediately.
- The “thunk” you hear when hitting a pothole is another potential sign of trouble. If it happens often, your car may need new shocks or struts.
- Pull over and check for broken parts when the car starts making an unusual noise. If there are none apparent, have your mechanic take a look to rule out more serious issues.
- The “grinding” sound that sometimes accompanies gear shift problems usually indicates a mechanical issue that needs to be fixed immediately.
- When the engine makes a high-pitched squealing noise, it’s often due to water getting inside the engine compartment or faulty gaskets. Fixing these issues can cost hundreds of dollars, so get them fixed as soon as possible!
- If your car backfires frequently, chances are you’ve got a blown head gasket or cracked cylinder head on your hands (or both). These issues can quickly lead to significant damage and even loss of life if not addressed quickly!
- “Puffing” noises come from either lousy fuel injectors or low-quality fuel, causing excess heat in the engine compartment, which results in increased emissions and reduced fuel economy. Get your car serviced as soon as possible to fix the issue!
- If the car’s engine revs higher than it usually does, there could be a problem with the fuel injectors. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible to prevent severe damage!
- You might hear “clanking” or “rattling” noises when the car is in motion if there’s something wrong with the suspension or steering. Have your mechanic take a look to find out what’s causing the issue and fix it ASAP!
- If your car starts making an unusual noise when you’re driving it, pull over and stop immediately. Don’t try to push it any further and call a tow truck – something may be seriously wrong with your vehicle, and you don’t want to risk injuring yourself or others!
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The 9 Weirdest Ways Winter Affects Your Car
It’s that time of year again when the weather gets chilly, and we all hunker down in our homes until spring. But that’s not all that happens during the winter months.
As it turns out, winter can also have funky effects on your car. Here’s a look at nine of the weirdest things that happen to vehicles during the colder months.
- Your car’s battery dies faster in the winter.
- Your car’s tires get lower traction on icy roads.
- You have to use more windshield washer fluid in the winter.
- Your car’s engine oil gets thicker in the winter.
- You might get frostbite while pumping gas in the winter.
- Your car’s paint job can suffer in the winter.
- Your car’s windows can fog up more quickly in the winter.
- 8. You must be careful of black ice when driving in the winter.
- 9. Winter weather can wreak havoc on your car’s electrical system.
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How to Keep Your Car’s Battery Warm in Winter
Your car’s battery is one of the essential parts of your vehicle, and in winter, it is especially vulnerable to cold weather. Here are some tips on how to keep your car’s battery warm in winter:
- Park in a garage or carport whenever possible. This will protect your battery from the cold weather and prolong its life.
- If you must park outside, try to park in a sunny spot. The sun’s rays will help keep your battery warm.
- Consider investing in a battery blanket or heater. These devices plug into your cigarette lighter and help keep your battery at a consistent temperature, preventing it from getting too cold or hot.
- Check your battery regularly. In winter, checking your battery’s water level more frequently than usual is essential. Cold weather can cause the water in your battery to evaporate quickly, so be sure to top it off as needed.
- If your battery does die, do not try to jump-start it with another car’s battery unless necessary. The extra charge from the other car’s battery could damage your own. Instead, call a tow truck or roadside assistance service for help getting started again safely.
How to Prevent Your Tires from Slipping in Winter
It’s no secret that winter weather can take a toll on your car. One of the most common issues during the winter months is tires slipping on icy roads. Here are a few tips to help prevent your tires from slipping:
- Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires are more likely to slip on ice and snow.
- Avoid driving on icy or snow-covered roads if possible. If you must drive in these conditions, go slowly and avoid sudden stops or turns.
- If your car starts to slide, don’t panic! Steer in the direction of the slide and gently apply the brakes. Don’t try to accelerate out of a fall, as this will only make things worse.
The Effect of Salt on Your Car’s Body
Salt can have a corrosive effect on your car’s body. Over time, it can cause the paint to peel and the metal to rust. If you live in an area where salt is used on the roads, you should wash your car regularly to protect its finish.
How to Protect Your Car’s Body from Salt Damage in Winter
As the weather gets colder and the snow starts to fall, it’s essential to know how salt can damage your car’s body. Salt is used on roads and sidewalks to melt ice and prevent slippery conditions, but it can also wreak havoc on your vehicle if you’re not careful.
Here are some tips to help protect your car’s body from salt damage this winter:
- Wash your car regularly: Salt can build up on your car’s paint and cause it to corrode. Washing your car regularly will help remove any salt that has accumulated.
- Wax your car: Waxing creates a barrier between the paint and the environment, which can help protect against salt damage.
- Avoid driving in deep puddles of water: Water can splash up onto your car and deposit salt onto the paint, which can cause corrosion over time.
- Inspect your car for rust regularly: If you see any signs of rust, have it repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
- Store your car in a garage or covered parking spot during winter weather advisories. This will help keep salt and other harsh chemicals off your car’s finish.
How to Stay Safe on the Roads This Winter
- Drive slowly and carefully: Speed limits are set for ideal conditions, so it’s best to go below the posted limit when the roads are slick.
- Use your headlights, even during the day: Low-visibility conditions make it harder for other drivers to see you.
- Keep your distance from other cars: It takes longer to stop on slippery roads, so give yourself some extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- Be extra cautious at intersections, ramps, and bridges, which tend to be icy.
- Don’t use cruise control in winter weather: If you start to slide, it will be harder to regain control of the car if you cannot adjust your speed quickly.
- Don’t drink and drive: Alcohol impairs your judgment and reaction time, making driving even more dangerous in winter weather.
I don’t live in a cold climate; do I still need to worry about winter car care?
It is always best to be prepared for winter weather, even if you don’t live in a cold climate. You never know when a cold snap might hit.
Will my car’s battery die faster in the winter?
Your car’s battery will not necessarily die faster in the winter, but it may have a reduced lifespan if it is frequently exposed to cold temperatures.
Will my car be ok if I don’t do anything to it during winter?
It would help if you ideally did something to your car during winter to make sure it stays in good condition.
Conclusion
Now that you know how winter can affect your car, you can take steps to prepare for the season and avoid any potential problems. Remember to keep your battery warm, your tires inflated, and your car clean to help prevent any salt damage. And most importantly, drive safely!