What to Do When a Car Has Difficulty Starting in Winter?

[Betty]

Difficulty in cold starts during winter can be addressed by switching to engine oil suitable for winter use. Additional details are as follows: 1. Reasons for difficulty in cold starts during winter: The primary cause is the low temperature, which increases the viscosity of the engine oil, reduces its fluidity, raises engine resistance, and consequently makes starting the engine difficult. 2. Other considerations: Car owners should check the freezing point of the antifreeze. The liquid freezing point of the antifreeze should be 5 to 10°C lower than the lowest temperature in the vehicle's operating area. Note that the antifreeze level should generally be about 10 millimeters below the radiator filler cap. It's also essential to check the battery voltage. The method to check: With the engine at normal temperature and the starter in good condition, if the engine starts smoothly several times in a row, it indicates the battery is in good condition with normal voltage. If each start results in a gradual decrease in engine speed, or the engine barely starts, it suggests the battery voltage is low and requires charging.

[DelIan]

Having driven for over a decade, I know winter starting difficulties are common, especially in older vehicles. An aging battery with insufficient charge in cold temperatures is the most likely cause of weak starts, so it's best to check the battery condition before winter sets in. Oil viscosity that's too thick is also problematic—switching to a full synthetic oil with a 0W or 5W rating is recommended. When parking, choose a sheltered spot to avoid direct engine exposure to freezing temperatures. Before starting, turn off all electrical devices and turn the key to the ignition position, waiting 5 seconds for the fuel pump to work. The first attempt shouldn't exceed 3 seconds; if it fails, wait 15 seconds before trying again. Regularly adding fuel system cleaner to the gas tank can reduce carbon buildup, making starts smoother. If multiple attempts fail, it might be a starter or spark plug issue—getting it checked at a repair shop promptly is the safer option.

[KyleRose]

I learned a few practical tips when I had difficulty starting my car in winter. First, check if the battery terminals are oxidized or loose. If so, sand them down and tighten them. Before parking overnight, turn off the air conditioning, lights, and radio to reduce battery drain. In the morning, don't turn the key directly to start; instead, power on for about 10 seconds before igniting. Avoid too many short trips in daily use; driving more on highways helps the battery charge more fully. If you live in the north, buying a car cover to wrap the hood can help retain some heat. For emergencies, keep a portable car jump starter in the glove box for a quick boost when needed. Of course, the most fundamental solution is regular maintenance, especially for older cars, which should use engine oil with good low-temperature performance.

[PaisleyMarie]

Prevention is much simpler than remedy. Every October, I perform a winterization check, replacing batteries older than five years and checking the starter voltage. The engine oil must be a low-viscosity type like 0W-20 for smooth cold starts. When parked outdoors, I cover the front of the car with a car cover, and a windshield sunshade can also prevent internal frost. For vehicles frequently used for short trips, I take a monthly highway drive to clear carbon deposits. Components like the throttle body and fuel injectors are cleaned every 30,000 kilometers, and the fuel filter is replaced as needed. Tire pressure is also adjusted to the upper limit, reducing strain on the starter by easing the wheels' workload. After forming these habits, my car hasn't experienced ignition difficulties for five years.