What to Pay Attention to for Vehicles in Winter?
2 Answers
In winter, car windows often freeze or frost over, obstructing visibility and affecting safety. Therefore, it is crucial to inspect heating devices such as the windshield, side window vents, and rear window defrosters to ensure they are in good working condition. Use warm water for winter maintenance and car washing: Especially after the engine has warmed up, the front part of the car becomes quite hot. Using cold water to wash the car can cause rapid cooling, which is harmful to the paintwork. Never rinse the engine directly. After washing, promptly open the doors to dry any water residue to prevent leftover water in the door gaps from freezing and locking the doors. If the windows are frozen, avoid forcing them open or closed, particularly for electric windows. Wait until they thaw naturally before operating them. Switch to low-viscosity engine oil: This is an important point for car owners to note. In winter, high-viscosity oil can increase the operational burden on internal engine components, leading to higher fuel consumption. Therefore, it is advisable to switch to lower-viscosity oil during winter months to facilitate smoother engine performance.
I've been driving in the north for over a decade, and the most troublesome issue in winter is the impact of low temperatures on vehicles. Before starting, I always make it a habit to check tire pressure. Temperature drops can cause tire pressure to decrease, leading to increased wear or even blowouts, so I measure it monthly to ensure it stays within the recommended range. The battery also requires extra attention, as cold weather reduces its capacity. Last year, I failed to replace the battery in advance and couldn't start the car in the morning. I learned my lesson and now get a battery check at the shop before winter arrives. Additionally, keeping the windshield clean is essential—I use antifreeze windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing and switch to winter-specific wiper blades to ensure clear visibility when clearing snow. Engine warm-up is also crucial; I usually let it idle for a minute or two before driving to avoid wasting fuel and increasing emissions from prolonged idling. These small habits make winter driving safer and more worry-free.
