What Causes Poor Engine Performance in Extremely Cold Regions for Cars?

[BellaLynn]

Poor engine performance in extremely cold regions is primarily due to the lower oxygen content in the air, which can lead to a lack of power during engine operation. Additionally, the low temperatures in these areas cause the engine oil to become more viscous, increasing the engine's operational resistance. When driving in extremely cold regions, it is essential to use engine oil specifically designed for such conditions. Engine oil serves multiple functions in an engine, including lubrication, cleaning, sealing, buffering, heat dissipation, and rust prevention. Common engine oil grades include 0W30, 5W40, 0W20, and 5W30. The letter 'W' in the oil grade stands for 'Winter,' and the number preceding it indicates the oil's low-temperature flow performance. For instance, 0W oil can flow normally at temperatures as low as -35 degrees Celsius, while 5W oil can flow normally at -30 degrees Celsius.

[StAaron]

Last winter, I drove to Northeast China for a trip. When the temperature dropped below minus 20 degrees Celsius, the car was particularly difficult to start, and the acceleration was sluggish. Even when I floored the accelerator, it felt weak. Later, I asked a mechanic friend and found out that the low temperature had thickened the engine oil, making it flow like syrup, increasing internal friction in the engine and reducing power output. Additionally, the battery voltage drops in extreme cold, especially with aging batteries, leading to insufficient current output and affecting the ignition system. The fuel injection system is also prone to issues, as the cold can cause uneven fuel spraying and incomplete combustion. I recommend warming up the car for a few extra minutes before driving in extremely cold regions, regularly checking the engine oil and battery to avoid unnecessary trouble. Another thing to note is that tire pressure tends to be lower in cold weather, affecting handling, so it’s important to adjust it accordingly.

[Sylvia]

I often encounter cases where cars lack power in cold weather during repairs. The engine struggles to operate at low temperatures, primarily because the oil viscosity increases, becoming as thick as butter, resulting in poor lubrication and increased internal engine resistance, which stifles power output. The battery is also crucial; the electrolyte's activity decreases in cold weather, weakening its discharge capacity and making it difficult for the starter to turn over. Additionally, the air filter in the intake pipe is prone to freezing and clogging, the air flow meter may malfunction, and poor fuel atomization leads to inefficient combustion. These systems are interconnected, and when problems arise, the car becomes sluggish. It is recommended that car owners switch to low-viscosity oil in winter, regularly test the battery's health, and clean the air filter. Don’t overlook regular maintenance, as minor issues can accumulate into major problems.

[JeffreyRose]

I've been driving for most of my life. In the early years, when I drove an old Santana on business trips to the north, the car felt sluggish and lacked power in cold weather. Back then, I didn't understand why, but later I realized it was because the engine oil was too thick at low temperatures, increasing engine friction and reducing power. The battery was also affected, with older models experiencing unstable voltage and difficulty starting. Simply put, the whole machine doesn't operate smoothly when it's cold. I recommend using special cold-weather engine oil and extending the warm-up time. Just check more often and avoid unnecessary modifications.