By: Krisdy Riddle
We asked our team what cold weather messes up first on a vehicle and the most common reason cars won’t start in winter: batteries and tires. Winters in Idaho can be rough and your vehicle feels the cold before you do.
Cold Weather and Your Car Battery
If your car won’t start in winter, the battery is almost always the first place to look.
Cold temperatures slow the chemical reaction inside your battery which reduces its ability to produce power. In freezing weather, a car battery can lose up to 50% of its starting power. At the same time, your engine needs more energy to turn over because engine oil thickens in cold temperatures.
If your battery is already a few years old, this is prone for battery failure.
Common signs your battery is struggling:
• Slow or labored engine cranking
• Dim headlights or interior lights
• Clicking sound when turning the key
• A battery older than 3-4 years
Many winter no-start situations could be prevented with a simple battery test before temperatures drop.
Why Tires Are the First Thing Cold Weather Messes Up
After batteries, tires are the next most affected part of your vehicle in cold weather.
As temperatures drop, air inside your tire contracts. For every 10-degree decrease in temperature, tire pressure drops by about 1 PSI. Low tire pressure reduces traction, handling, braking performance, and fuel efficiency.
Cold temperatures also make tire tubber stiffer, reducing grip, especially on word or under-inflated tires.
Winter tire issues often include:
• Low tire pressure warning lights
• Uneven or accelerated tire wear
• Reduced traction on snow and ice
• Longer stopping distances
Properly inflated tires are one of the simplest and more important ways to stay safe during winter driving.
Other Vehicle Problems Cold Weather Can Cause
While batteries and tires are the most common winter issues, cold weather can also impact other parts of your vehicle including:
• Thickened engine oil that makes starting harder
• Frozen or ineffective windshield washer fluid
• Increased strain on starters and alternators
• Brittle belts and hoses that can crack in extreme cold
That’s why winter vehicle inspections are so important, they catch small issues before they turn into major problems.
How to Prevent Winter No-Start Issues
A little preparation goes a long way when it comes to winter car care! To reduce the chances of a dead battery or tire problems in cold weather, we recommend:
• Testing your battery before winter temperatures hit
• Checking tire pressure regularly (especially during cold snaps)
• Replacing worn tires before snow and ice arrive
• Parking in a garage when possible
• Schedule a winter vehicle inspection
If you car is slow to start, your tire pressure keeps dropping, or you just want peace of mind, it’s best to have it checked sooner rather than later.
Stay Ahead of Winter Car Trouble
Winter weather is tough on vehicles but you don’t have to be caught off guard. Batteries and tires are the two most common reasons cars struggle when temperatures drop and both can often be addressed before they leave you stranded.
If you’re experiencing cold-weather vehicle issues or want to prepare your car for winter driving, stop by and see our team. We’re here to help keep you safe, reliable, and on the road all season long. Call us or schedule your winter service online today!
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