What are the precautions for parking in snowy weather?
2 Answers
Precautions for parking in snowy weather include: 1. Do not use the handbrake: Because in snowy or rainy weather, there will be some water accumulation in the brake discs and calipers after driving. If the handbrake is engaged, the accumulated water may freeze overnight at low temperatures, potentially damaging the braking system when starting the vehicle the next day; 2. Protect the headlights and windows; 3. Try not to use a car cover; 4. Lift the wiper blades: If the wiper blades are not lifted, the snow that falls on the car overnight may freeze the wiper blades to the windshield. When using them the next day, abruptly turning on the wipers could cause damage.
I usually park very carefully on snowy days, as years of driving experience have taught me several hard lessons. First, choosing the right parking spot is crucial—I avoid areas under large trees or on slopes to prevent snow-laden branches from breaking or the car from sliding. Ideally, I look for a garage or flat ground. Second, clearing snow is a must. I always carry a snow brush to promptly remove snow from the windows and roof, as melted and refrozen snow can freeze the wipers or crack the glass. Before parking, I also make sure to lift the wipers to prevent them from sticking. For safety, I double-check that the car is securely locked, as theft tends to increase in snowy weather. I also walk slowly after parking to avoid slipping on icy surfaces. For long-term parking, I use a waterproof car cover to protect the paint and check the tire pressure to ensure it’s at the right level, as low pressure on unstable snowy roads can lead to issues. These details come from real experiences—especially that one heavy snowfall when my car nearly slid away, which made me extra cautious. Developing these habits has saved me from many repair headaches.