Will a Car Left Outside in Winter Get Damaged by Freezing?
2 Answers
Leaving a car outside in winter may cause freezing damage. The sudden drop in temperature, harsh cold winds, and severe rain or snow weather can all cause varying degrees of damage to vehicles parked outdoors, and may even pose hidden dangers to driving safety. The most significant issue is icing caused by low temperatures. Here are the effects of winter temperature drops on cars: 1. When the air temperature is low, the vehicle's windows may frost or ice over, primarily due to the significant temperature difference between the inside and outside of the car. 2. Low temperatures can affect engine startup. As the temperature drops, the viscosity of the engine oil increases significantly, leading to greater resistance and making cold starts more difficult. 3. Low temperatures can impact the exhaust system. If water accumulated in the exhaust pipe is not drained in time, it can freeze and block the exhaust, causing difficulties in starting and issues like vehicle shaking.
I live in the cold northeast, where cars are often parked outside in winter. While the car won't completely freeze and break down, negligence can indeed cause problems. Looking back, there was a time when I didn't change to winter oil, and the engine made a rattling noise upon startup, almost causing damage. Also, car batteries tend to fail in sub-zero temperatures—an old battery can lose all its charge when frozen, requiring a jump start, which is such a hassle. It's common for windshield wipers to freeze to the glass; forcing them can break them, so I learned to use warm water or the car's heater to thaw them slowly. If the antifreeze concentration is insufficient, the radiator can freeze and crack, leading to expensive repairs. My advice is to check the battery and switch to winter oil before winter arrives, and to park in a sheltered spot or cover the engine with a car cover. Additionally, tire pressure fluctuates significantly, so checking it before driving adds peace of mind. In short, paying attention to these small details ensures your car gets through winter safely.
