Winter can be difficult on our automobiles, as we all know. Dead batteries and broken windshields are just a couple of the issues the cold weather may bring about. But there are some weird ways that winter can affect your car that you may not be aware of. Here are seven of them.
7 WEIRD WAYS WINTER AFFECTS YOUR CAR
Hey, it’s winter time again! And that means it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your car in top condition during the colder months. Your automobile might suffer damage from the cold. Here are seven weird ways winter can affect your car, and what you can do to combat them.
1. Your tires get harder
When the temperature drops, the air in your tires gets colder and harder. This can lead to decreased traction and shorter braking distances. Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly during the winter to keep them inflated to the proper level.
2. Your battery dies quicker
The cold weather can also affect your battery. When it’s cold, the battery’s chemical reaction slows down, which can lead to a shorter lifespan. If your car is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to get your battery tested before the winter.
3. Your oil gets thicker
As the temperature drops, the oil in your car thickens. This can make it harder for your engine to start, and can also lead to decreased fuel economy. Synthetic oils are less likely to thicken in the cold, so consider switching to one if you haven’t already.
4. Your windows fog up
When the temperature inside your car is different from the temperature outside, your windows will fog up. This can be a nuisance, and can also impair your vision. To prevent your windows from fogging up, crack open a window slightly when you first get in your car.
5. Your car takes longer to heat up
It takes longer for your car to heat up in the winter because the engine is cold. This can be frustrating when you’re trying to get to work on time. To help your car heat up faster, park it in a garage or carport if you have one.
6. Your wipers freeze
If you live in an area where it gets cold enough for your wipers to freeze and stick to your windshield, you’re not alone. This is a common problem in the winter, and can be frustrating when you’re trying to clear the snow and ice off your windshield.
If your wipers do freeze to your windshield, don’t try to force them off. This could damage your wipers. Instead, turn on your defroster and let it run for a few minutes. This will help to thaw your wipers so you can safely remove them.
7. Your car door freezes shut
If you live in an area where it gets cold enough for your car door to freeze shut, you’re not alone. This is a common problem in the winter, and can be frustrating when you’re trying to get into your car.
If your car door freezes shut, don’t try to force it open. This could damage your car door. Instead, pour some hot water on the frozen area, and then try to open the door. If this doesn’t work, you can also try using a hairdryer to thaw the frozen area.
These are just a few of the weird ways winter can affect your car. Be sure to take care of your car during the winter, and it will take care of you.