How do cooler winter temperatures affect my vehicle?


Winter can be a tough time for your car. Cold temperatures can cause all sorts of issues, from dead batteries to frozen door locks. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the ways that winter temperatures can affect your car, and what you can do to prepare for the cold.

Batteries

Cold temperatures can be hard on car batteries, as they can cause a chemical reaction that reduces their ability to hold a charge. This means that your battery may not have enough power to start your car on a cold winter morning. To help prevent this issue, it's a good idea to have your battery tested before winter starts. You can do this at most auto parts stores or at a mechanic. If your battery is more than three years old, it might be a good idea to replace it before the winter weather hits.

Oil

Thicker oil is needed in the winter to help reduce friction and protect your engine. If you're due for an oil change, make sure to switch to a winter-grade oil before the cold weather arrives.

Door Locks

If you live in the North, you know that frozen door locks can happen. When water gets into the lock and then freezes, it can prevent you from being able to unlock your car. To prevent this, you can try spraying a silicone-based lubricant into the lock. This can help to displace any water that might be inside and prevent it from freezing.

Loss of Tire Pressure

Cold temperatures can also cause tires to lose pressure. This is because the air inside the tire contracts as the temperature drops, causing the pressure to fall. It's important to check your tire pressure regularly during the winter months, as low tire pressure can lead to reduced traction and increased wear on your tires.

If you need vehicle repair this winter, we invite you to bring your vehicle to Torque Automotive today!