Cold Weather Auto Maintenance and Driving Tips

Extreme cold can damage a car inside and out. Cars depend on the flow of fluids, including water, fuel, and oil, to keep their engines running. Texas drivers count on their car’s batteries, tires and transmissions to function at peak efficiency. The high winds, icy roads and freezing temperatures expected to run through Houston and Southeast Texas this week can all contribute to poor performance on the road. Car owners can take several preventative measures to keep their vehicles in operating condition and out of dangerous situations.

Antifreeze

While many Texas drivers are aware of how chemical additives keep radiator fluids from boiling over in the summer heat, few might be aware of how the same chemicals can prevent these same fluids from freezing in cold weather. When water turns to ice, the expansion from liquid to solid can rupture the car’s radiator, so antifreeze can prevent costly damage due to a ruptured radiator.

Battery

Few times can be as frustrating as trying to start a car with a cold, dead battery. Since car batteries rely on the chemical reaction of fluids to produce electricity, cold weather can inhibit these reactions and cause a response failure in the ignition system. Encasing the battery in an engine block heater or a battery wrap overnight can protect the fluids inside the battery and ensure a quick start.

Brakes

Excess moisture in the brake system can freeze in cold temperatures. Ice in the brake system can cause the brakes to malfunction or lock up. Brake malfunctions can lead to costly and dangerous accidents on icy roads. Brake fluid absorbs moisture, so the driver should have the fluid flushed to prevent these problems if the fluid has not been replaced in recent months.

Hazard Lights

Flashing hazard lights allow drivers to see disabled cars and avoid these obstacles. Hazard lights are especially important during times of low visibility, such as at night or when freezing precipitation falls. Drivers should check on their hazards lights to determine if they are bright and functional.

Tires

According to experts at Goodyear Tires, the air pressure in a tire declines by 1 to 2 pounds for every 10 degrees the temperature falls. This reduced tire pressure, combined with the lack of traction on icy roads, can lead to dangerous driving conditions. Drivers should check their owner’s manuals for the recommended tire pressure.

Windshield Wipers and Wiper Fluid

Visibility can be a serious issue when driving in cold weather. Snow, sleet and slush can form a barrier over the car’s windshield that inhibit the driver’s visibility, response time and ability to avoid accidents. Drivers should check their windshield wipers for wear and their wiper fluids to ensure that they won’t freeze when the temperature drops.

 Auto accidents can be painful experiences for victims and their families. The legal professionals at Arguello Law Firm know that auto accident victims face financial hardships due to medical costs, car repairs and lost wages. Our expert legal team fights to get auto accident victims the highest level of injury compensation. Contact us today at 1-888-CLAIM-68 (1-888-252-4668) or fill out and send the free and confidential  “Free Case Evaluation” form located at the top of this page.

Sources:

http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

http://prideautocare.com/cold-weather-winter-driving-tips-colorado-drivers/

http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/safetyBelow45.dos