Handy Driver’s Guide With Solutions To Common Winter Auto Problems
Cold temperatures, sudden downpours, rigid snow and ice, may wreak havoc on your vehicle with serious auto problems, like dying battery and frosty windows, affecting its overall performance and efficiency. To help you navigate the different winter auto challenges like a pro, the experts at Terra Nova GMC Buick have prepared a handy guide for all drivers with solutions to some common auto problems you may experience through the challenging winter season. Take a look!
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5 Common Winter Auto Problems — Solved!
1. Dead battery: In winter, car batteries lose their charge quickly, as they fail to hold a charge for longer, resulting in a struggle to start the engine, as well as leading to dimmer lights.
Solution: To avoid facing this problem, get a load test performed by a professional on your bat tery as soon as the temperature drops, to help prevent battery drain in winter. Also, always carry jumper cables and learn how to use them safely in emergency situations
2. Thickened fluids: The fluids in your car, including engine oil, can become thicker with dropping temperatures, affecting its overall functionality.
Solution: To avoid this problem, use winter-grade engine oil and other car fluids, including coolant/antifreeze and wiper fluid, to enjoy a seamless driving experience.
3. Poor traction: Winter roads are slippery, and can easily make you lose control of your vehicle, especially if you’re not maintaining proper tire pressure or checking the tire treads.
Solution:Switch to winter tires, as they are designed specifically for winter roads, offering optimum traction and control over slippery, sloppy and icy conditions. In winter, you may also inflate your tires a little extra as they can lose pressure due to condensation.
4. Inefficient brakes: Winter roads can significantly affect the braking system, making the brakes less responsive.
Solution: Get your braking system or brakes checked by experienced technicians beforehand. Also, ensure your brake calipers, brake pads, and rotors are in good working order.
5. Blocked exhaust pipe: Snow accumulation can block your car’s exhaust pipe, leading to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup inside your car.
Solution: Before starting your car in the winter, make sure to check the exhaust pipe for any buildup or obstruction to ensure maximum safety.
Get Your Car Prepared For Winter at Terra Nova GMC Buick
Need help with getting your car ready for the challenging winter season? Please visit our certified technicians at Terra Nova GMC Buick, who use OEM recommendations and industry standards in our well-equipped service facility to get every auto problem fixed. To book an appointment, visit us at 595 Kenmount Road, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador or call us at 709-364-4130, today!