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If cars have feelings, they can be miserable in windy winters.
Icy roads can make tires spin. Freezing points can cause fluids to thicken, making it harder for your car to function properly.
Having your car break down on the side of the road is scary, but it’s 10 times worse when the wind chill is below zero and there’s a foot of snow.
Avoid vehicle breakdowns and expensive repair shop bills with these tips car care committee All about how to freeze your car.
Note that if your city, county or other jurisdiction has issued travel advisories to stay off the road, heed the warnings and do not venture outside until conditions are safe again.
6 easy ways to winterize your car
This advice will help you keep your car running efficiently throughout the winter.
1. Keep enough gas in the tank
Don’t let your gas tank fall below half full. A low fuel tank increases the chance of moisture forming in the gas lines and possibly freezing.
2. Check your tire pressure
Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, so make sure to check tire pressure, even in the spare tire. If you live where snow and ice are a problem, consider using snow tires.
3. Watch out for leaks
Check the exhaust system for carbon monoxide leaks. Carbon monoxide is odorless, and inhaling too much can be fatal. Watching out for leaks in winter is especially important when you’re driving with your windows open all the time.
If you have other existing car problems, the Auto Care Council also recommends having your vehicle inspected by a trusted professional, as the cold may magnify these problems.
4. Don’t skip the warm-up
When the temperature drops below freezing, give your car some time to warm up. This will circulate and warm the oil in the engine and transmission.
5. Use low viscosity oil
Consider switching from 10-W30 oil to 5-W30 oil, as thickened oil can make your car difficult to start in cold weather. When the temperature freezes, the low viscosity oil will flow better between moving parts.
6. Keep your windshield clear
Take the time to scrape snow and ice off your windshield and make sure your windshield wipers are in good working order before hitting the road. Consider using cold-weather washer fluid and special winter windshield blades to keep them clearly visible when it snows.
Nicole Dow is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
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