What Needs to Be Replaced in a Car During Winter?
2 Answers
Winter car maintenance requires the following replacements: 1. Engine Oil: Winter demands higher lubrication standards for cars. If summer-grade oil is being used, it must be replaced. Oil that has been used for an extended period, turned black, or lost its adhesive properties should also be replaced to ensure smooth engine starts. 2. Antifreeze: The amount of antifreeze must be appropriate. Different regions and car models require attention to the antifreeze's freezing point and type. Antifreeze older than two years should be replaced, and mixed antifreeze must be replaced annually. 3. Battery: Ensure the battery's electrolyte level is adequate, ideally submerging the plates by 10 mm. Also, check the electrolyte's specific gravity and maintain proper charge. An undercharged battery is highly susceptible to cracking in extreme cold. 4. Brake System: Monitor the brake fluid level and quality. Top up or replace as necessary. 5. Wheel Alignment: Winter roads are prone to ice and snow, and materials like rubber, metal, and plastic harden in low temperatures, making the control system heavier and reducing road feedback. Incorrect wheel alignment can significantly compromise safety.
We veteran drivers all know that the biggest fear in winter driving is the car not being able to withstand the low temperatures. You must check the antifreeze's freezing point – if it's not low enough, replace it immediately, otherwise the radiator might freeze and crack. Engine oil should also be switched to a type with good low-temperature fluidity, such as 0W grades, to ensure smooth cold starts for the engine. Windshield washer fluid needs to be replaced with an antifreeze type, as regular fluid can freeze and burst the pipes in sub-zero conditions. Tires are the most critical – in heavy snow areas up north, you need to switch to winter tires, as regular tires perform like ice skates on snowy roads. Also, check the battery charge; batteries drain particularly fast in winter, and getting stranded due to a dead battery is a real hassle. Finally, don’t forget the heating system – if the heater isn’t blowing warm air, it’s likely an issue with the coolant circulation.
