What to Pay Attention to When Entering Winter for Vehicles

[StBrandon]

Entering winter, the following precautions should be taken for vehicles: Change to winter tires: As temperatures drop, the surface of tires becomes stiff, which affects their grip performance. In some cases, this can easily lead to skidding, especially in northeastern regions where rain and snow are frequent, making road conditions worse. Additionally, due to thermal contraction, tire pressure will also decrease. Add or replace antifreeze: Antifreeze has two main functions: in summer, when temperatures are high, it ensures the normal operation of the vehicle's cooling system, preventing the engine from overheating; in winter, it prevents excessively low temperatures from freezing and damaging engine components like cylinders. Choose the appropriate engine oil: Similarly, due to lower temperatures, if cold-start engine oil is too thick in winter, it can affect vehicle startup and increase engine wear. Conversely, if hot engine oil is too thin, it can reduce lubrication and sealing performance.

[AdelynMarie]

When driving in winter, I always take extra precautions to ensure safety and comfort. Check if the tire pressure meets the standard, and it's best to switch to winter tires if the tread wear is severe to enhance snow traction. It's crucial to replace the coolant with an antifreeze formula; otherwise, it may freeze and affect the engine. The battery is prone to failure in low temperatures, so test the voltage to ensure it's normal. Replace the wiper blades with new frost-resistant versions to quickly clear snow and ice from the windshield in snowy conditions. When parking, choose an indoor garage or use a car cover, and apply a dedicated de-icer to prevent windows from freezing. While driving, start slowly and warm up the car for half a minute, maintain a steady speed, and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding on snowy or icy roads. Prepare an emergency kit including a small shovel, blankets, and a power bank in case you get stranded on the road. These habits help me navigate the cold season smoothly.

[Omar]

Winter car usage requires practicality and peace of mind. I check tire tread depth and pressure, inflating to the manual's standards; sometimes renting winter tires doesn't cost much but enhances safety. Antifreeze concentration must not be too low—regular testing or replacement prevents freezing. Battery health is crucial to avoid cold-start issues; clean terminals to prevent corrosion. Install high-quality wiper blades to handle ice. Spray antifreeze windshield fluid when parking to minimize hassle, and clear snow from the car exterior. Drive slowly, maintaining extra distance, especially in rain or snow. Keep defogger and emergency tools like power banks in the car. Adjusting these small habits ensures worry-free winter driving.

[VanGianna]

After years of winter driving, I emphasize the key points for safety. Check tire pressure and wear, and consider winter tires for anti-skid. Ensure antifreeze is suitable for low temperatures to prevent damage. Test the battery to avoid failure to start in cold weather. Replace wipers with freeze-resistant blades for quick snow and fog clearance. Drive with a short warm-up and proceed steadily at low speeds. These simple precautions reduce risks.