Adapting your car for the cold
When the weather turns cold, car care becomes bold.
So says Curt Daubenspeck of Lennon’s Auto Body.
“Now is the time to pretty much check everything,” Daubenspeck said. “Make sure the battery is fully charged, the wipers are working properly and the coolant is ready for the cold.
“The coolant should be able to handle 20 below zero, not just thirty degrees or so. You don’t see too many (engine) blocks freezing anymore, but you still have to be aware of it.”
Of course, tire care is critical as well.
Jim Young, of Butler Tires For Less, said car owners can do plenty to ensure safe traction on slippery and snowy roads.
“When it gets colder, the air pressure in your tires changes,” Young said. “That pressure goes down, so you have to pay attention to that. Keep the pressure up and keep your tires rotated. That makes a big difference.
“Make sure your treads are in decent shape, too. Most tires are at 10 or 12/32nds. When they get down to 4, there’s not a lot of tread. Get much lower than that and it won’t pass inspection.”
Young explained there are all-season tires and all-weather tires available.
“A lot of people are using the all-weather tires now. They get through the winter better,” he said.
Car batteries are forced to work harder in the cold weather.
“Tires and batteries are the most common problem we encounter during winter car service,” Daubenspeck said. “We’ll come across a dead battery that’s been in the car for six years. The cold drains the power from the battery.”
Jerry Steiner, of Steiner’s Garage, pointed out cars will overheat in cold weather because “the thermostat will stick on them at times.”
He also cautioned against idling a car for too long after turning the ignition on.
“Idle for a couple of minutes, that’s all you need,” Steiner said. “Once the engine’s running, you’re good to go. I just start my car up and go.
Having good windshield wipers and wiper fluid are also important.
“People will drive with faulty, worn-out wipers … They can see though a little spot on the windshield and figure they’re safe. They’re not,” Steiner added.
Young said some wiper fluids will freeze up when the temperature dips to a certain degree.
“Obviously, that’s a dangerous thing,” he said. “Make sure you’re using wiper fluid that can handle the cold. Clear vision is critical to driving on bad roads.”
“A lot of winter preparation for cars is using common sense, really. Be prepared for what the winter brings. I think we’re going to have some good snows this year, so brush the snow off your roof along with the rest of the car. It’s illegal to leave it on there, but you see it all the time,” Steiner said.
“Check your brakes, see that they’re working properly,” he said. “Just take care of the basics, general good maintenance. Your car will treat you the way you treat it. Take care of the car, the car will take care of you.”
