In the state of Idaho, we have some cold winters that often include a constant blanket of snow. When snow falls and the temperature drops, they have a major impact on your vehicle. The cold and wet climate has its effects on vehicles and some of them can even be dangerous. To help avoid unexpected breakdowns or even an accident, Highway 30 Garage would like to share some of the common winter effects on vehicles and how you can better prepare for this winter season.
How Can You Prepare Your Vehicle for Bad Winter Weather Conditions?
Dead Car Batteries – A car battery can die due to intense cold temperatures. As the temperatures begin to drop, it is a good idea to have your battery tested. As long as a battery has a healthy charge, you should be okay. However, if the battery test reveals your battery charge is weak, it may be time to have your battery replaced.
Fluid Thickens – The fluids in your vehicle can thicken, especially if there is the tiniest of leaks. It is also harder for your vehicle to stay properly warm if its fluids are low. To help your vehicle avoid from being too cold or the fluids thickening, have your fluids checked. You will want to consider getting an oil change and have the power steering, brake fluid, transmission fluid and the antifreeze levels checked and see if they need to be refilled.
Auto Part Corrosion – In areas that get snow like Idaho, the roads, driveways and sidewalks are often salted to help prevent snow from sticking. Unfortunately salt also contributes to corrosion, partially in the metal components. Brakes, the undercarriage, and wheel wells often become victims of salt. To reduce corrosion, make sure to have your vehicle washed and take the time to wash the wheel, brakes and undercarriage of the vehicle to remove any salt.
Lost Tire Pressure – Another big effect cold temperatures have is on your tires. As the temperatures drop so will your internal tire pressure. For every ten degree drop in temperature, you will lose 1 pound of pressure. Throughout the winter season, check your tire pressure. The pressure will drop and need to be refilled to prevent flats and even accidents.
Spark Plug Failure – It is common for spark plugs to fail during the winter. When a spark plug fails, you will not be able to start your vehicle. It is a good idea to check or have the spark plugs replaced in the fall. This way you won’t fail to start your vehicle.
Towing, Roadside Assistance & More in Cassia, Gooding, Jerome & Twin Falls Counties in Magic Valley, Idaho & Jackpot, Northern Nevada
These are some of the common problems that occur in winter. Being broken down during a cold winter night doesn’t sound like fun in the slightest. However, even with the best preparation, you may still find yourself broken down or in need of help. For this reason, you will want to have the last and final step in you winter preparation. Have ready the contact information of a quality towing and roadside assistance services. They can help change tires, bring you fuel, jump start your battery and provide towing services. If you are looking for a quality and reliable towing and emergency roadside assistance service, contact Highway 30 Garage today.
