Winter is hard on cars, and especially older cars with a lot of miles. The low temperatures, snow, and ice can wear down many vehicle components and cause older components to quickly fail. Many people have been in the situation of coming to their car on a cold day only to have it not start. Others have experienced the dreaded check engine light illuminating on their dashboard. It’s not fun, and the results are usually car repair bills that many can’t afford, and that no one wants to pay. Even well-maintained vehicles are at risk.
There are many ways winter weather and conditions can damage your car. These are some of the most common.
Finishing Off Your Battery
When your car won’t start in the winter, the most likely culprit is a dead battery. Cold temperatures are a severe drain on batteries, and older batteries with little charge left are left at the highest risk. Your car battery needs to have a certain level of charge to start. Once it dips below, you will need to jump it every time to start your car. Battery replacement is common in the winter.
Failed Electrical Components
Sometimes it’s the components that start your car. Sometimes it’s those that control your radio or heat. It could be electrical components that power your windows, seats, and many other things in your car. Cold temperatures and ice buildup can damage many of the critical electrical components on your car, including your ignition lock cylinder, which plays a pivotal role in starting your car. If your car won’t start in the winter, the heat won’t work, or you’re having trouble with your radio, a likely cause is some type of failed electrical component.
Fluid Issues
Cold temperatures won’t freeze the liquids in your vehicle, but they can cause them to thicken, making it harder for them to flow throughout your car. This can cause multiple issues:
- Fluids not getting to their right destination can cause vehicle components to wear down and fail
- Fluids that become stuck in hoses can cause friction and wear them down, causing leaks
Things like brake fluid, engine oil, and transmission fluid can all be affected, meaning they can cause some serious damage to some of the most expensive parts of your car. Always make sure your car heats up before driving it at higher speeds.
Belts and Seals
Cold weather can also quickly wear down the various belts, hoses, and seals on your car. Many of these components are made from rubber, which can become brittle over time and in cold temperatures. This can cause fluid leaks and many other issues with your car.
The Importance of Car Protection Plans in Winter
It’s inevitable that something will go wrong with your car during the winter, especially if it has seen quite a few winters already. The best way to protect yourself during this time is with a car protection plan. With a reliable plan, you can drive comfortably all winter long. No more going out to your car worrying about whether it will start. No more paying for continuous repair bills that drain your bank account. All you have to do is sign up for a plan to start protecting your car. You even gain access to added benefits like roadside assistance, rental cars, and so much more.
