Winter can really tear down a vehicle. Very cold temperatures, roads covered by snow, and long cold nights are all factors that usually take cars to the verge of failure. And when a breakdown occurs during the middle of the winter, it is no longer just a problem of inconvenience; it can be dangerous. Knowing the most common failures that happen in the cold and being aware of your actions can keep you away from hassles of time, money, and stress. Here are the main problems that drivers encounter and the solutions to these problems. In addition, there are some important tips, such as what to do if your car won’t start in a cold environment, how to detect frozen fuel line symptoms, and the time when you should request winter roadside assistance.
1. Dead or Weak Battery – The #1 Winter Breakdown
When it is very cold, a weak or exhausted battery is among the most frequent causes of a car not starting. The cold temperatures slow down the chemical processes taking place inside the battery; therefore, the power output is limited.
Indications that you have a battery issue in the cold season:
- Slow engine crank
- Clicking noise when turning the key
- Headlights or dashboard lights dimming
If such an event takes place, a jump start would be the solution. Quick battery jump start tips are as follows:
- Firstly, use good-quality jumper cables that have thick, well-insulated wires.
- Ensure that both vehicles are turned off before you make the connection.
- Connect the positive terminal of the dead battery to the positive terminal of the live battery, and connect the negative terminal of the live battery to a metal ground on the car with the dead battery.
- After the connection is done, let the good car run for a while to charge your battery, and then try to start your car.
When the engine still does not turn over, it is the time for you to call for winter roadside assistance. The cold could be the reason for the permanent damage to your battery, and, therefore, a replacement may be necessary.
2. Frozen Fuel Line – A Silent Winter Killer
Under very cold or very hot situations, if there is water in the fuel system, it can freeze and block the fuel from flowing. Hence, it is very important to identify the frozen fuel line symptoms first to be able to avert bigger problems later on.
Reasonable to the situation, it may show one or more of the following symptoms:
- The engine is turning over, but the vehicle does not start.
- If the vehicle starts, it comes to a sudden stop.
- Making weird sounds when idling
- Fuel flow or pressure problems
Once in a lifetime, bring the vehicle to a warm place like a garage or get a professional to come and help you. Do not keep trying to start the engine, as this will quickly use up the battery and may cause more damage. Also, a fuel-line antifreeze product can be used as a preventive measure before winter.
3. Thickened Engine Oil and Fluids
When the weather is cold, engine oil gets thick, and the parts cannot move as smoothly. This will put a lot of pressure on the engine and the battery. In case your vehicle is having a hard time turning over but it manages to start, then thick oil may be responsible.
It is possible to make the engine work easier again by changing the oil to a winter-grade one or a lower viscosity. The service person in your garage will be able to tell you the exact formulation for your car and the climate.
| Also Read: Visibility & Safety Repairs for Winter Driving: Lights, Wipers, Defrosters & More |
4. Tire Pressure Drop and Flat Tires
In general, tire pressure is lower when the temperature is cold, so if the tires are under-inflated, a blowout, loss of traction, or sudden flat can happen. Check the pressure of all four tires, including the spare, before going out in the cold.
What to do if you have a flat and are off the road:
- Relocate the vehicle to a secure area.
- If it is safe, install the spare wheel.
- If the roads are slippery or the visibility is poor, make a call to the winter roadside assistance service.
Nothing can compare to the difference that properly inflated winter tires can make in terms of preventing emergency breakdowns.
5. Frozen Locks and Doors
When roads are icy, it is very common for car doors or locks to be frozen, making it impossible to get access to your vehicle. If it happens to you, do not try to open the door forcibly, as this can harm the seals. Just apply some de-icing spray or warm (not hot) water around the sealing. Also, a silicone spray will stop moisture from sticking and freezing if you put it on your door before winter.
6. Overheated Engine in Cold Weather
Even though it might sound weird, engines are able to overheat in the cold season as well when the radiator freezes because of low antifreeze levels or a malfunctioning thermostat. Be sure that your coolant blend is appropriate for sub-zero temperatures.
Final Word: Stay Prepared and Stay Safe
Even good-condition cars can suffer from winter emergencies. In case it is a battery failure, a frozen fuel issue, or your car is not starting in cold weather, being aware of the signs and solutions will allow you to keep your composure and make the right moves. Besides that, it is advisable to always have a winter emergency kit ready and to keep your vehicle in good condition so that, if the need arises, you can call for winter roadside assistance without hesitation. Preparation is certainly the safest way to be able to travel during the most difficult times of the year.