Winter Weather Common Issues

 

Common Car Issues in Winter Weather

As winter rapidly approaches, now is the time to start looking at ways to prevent possible vehicle problems that always seem to accompany winter's chill air and freezing conditions. Below, you will find a list of the ten most common vehicle issues that arise when the temperatures fall. We have included a few simple solutions to help prevent such problems when you're driving around Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Norman.

Failing or Dead Battery

Winter is the time when most automotive batteries decide to call it quits. That's because batteries don't respond well to cold weather. A few things you can do to prevent your battery from failing include parking in a garage, using a battery blanket, keeping it fully charged, or replacing it if it's going bad.

Tire Pressure Issues

Cold air is denser than warm air, and the sudden temperature change is why the tire pressure sensor shows that the tires are running low. This is a simple fix, air up when the weather changes. It helps if you have them checked to ensure there are no other issues.

Squeaky Wiper Blades

Windshield wiper blades break down over time and become brittle. When you pile snow or ice on top of that, the blades may crack or peel. One solution is to flip your wipers up, so they don't get buried under snow and ice. Also, if the blades start to crack or tear, you should replace them.

Spark Plugs Not Firing

Old, corroded spark plugs will not do well in the wintertime. This could make your car not want to start. Have one of our certified technicians look and see if it's time for new plugs.

Corrosion

Road salt used to melt the snow can build up on your undercarriage or the surfaces of your vehicle, causing corrosion. Wash your car frequently in the winter to remove the salt. Also, waxing the body can help protect that expensive paint job.

Slow-Moving Fluids

Always use the correct fluid for your vehicle and the region you live in. Synthetic oils have a lower freezing point. When winter hits, switch to a windshield wiper fluid that won't freeze. Make sure your antifreeze has you protected from the temperatures in your region. Having our service team winterize your vehicle is always your best option.

Worn-Out Belts

Older drive belts can become very stiff in cold weather, preventing them from gripping the pulleys. This issue can cause severe problems for systems like your water pump and alternator. If you notice your battery isn't charging or you hear a loud squealing sound, it could be a bad belt. Have our service department inspect the belts and recommend the best solution.

Iced Door Locks

Probably the most annoying winter problem is iced door locks. If you have a key fob or auto start, this won't concern you. For others, your best bet is to use some de-icer spray or buy a newer vehicle. Don't use hot water because the sudden temperature change can cause plastics, some metals, and glass to shatter.

Infotainment System Not Responding

The molecules in your LCD screens don't respond well to cold temperatures, and the colder it gets, the slower they react. The only option is to wait it out, and once the car warms up, it should work correctly.

Frozen Fuel Lines

While the gasoline itself doesn't freeze, the moisture trapped in your fuel system can and will if there is enough built up in your fuel lines. The best solution is to keep your tank as full as possible to avoid excessive moisture.

 

Get your vehicle winterized with help from the Bob Moore dealership service centers in your area. To learn more about staying safe out on the road, contact Bob Moore Collision Center.