Winter usually involves snow, ice, and low temperatures. If you have to drive during winter and have to rely on your vehicle every day, there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to prevent any winter-related car problems.
Did you know that every year during holidays, the number of car accidents increases by 20 to 25 percent? The main reasons are:
- Lack of attention
- Car problems
- Extreme weather conditions
Here are 7 tips that will help you prevent your winter car problems and ensure maximum safety while on the road.
Replace Tires
The first thing you have to do when the snow covers the roads is to replace your summer tires with your winter tires. The latter ones have better traction and will let you traverse the snowy roads with ease. They will also prevent any sliding and give you a greater chance of avoiding a car accident.
Refill your Anti-Freeze
Your engine needs to be able to work during extreme cold and needs antifreeze to prevent freezing. Open the hood and check if it needs refilling (when was the last time you checked it?). You might have to refill it several times based on the cold and duration of the winter.
Starting the Engine
If you are having problems with the engine start, don’t continuously crank the starter. Wait a few seconds before you give it a second or a third try. Remember to press your gas pedal while trying to start the engine.
If you are still having problems, consider taking public transport or calling for road assistance if that happened to you on your way back home.
If you get involved in a car accident due to car problems, consult with Miami car accident attorneys immediately following an accident. They offer a free consultation to every new (or returning) customer.
Warm Up The Engine
If you just got in your car, the first thing you want to do is start your engine and let it heat up a bit before taking off to work. Once it starts, the engine needs about 30 to 60 seconds before it is ready and warm. Waiting longer than that will just waste precious fuel.
Frozen Doors
Low temperatures may freeze your door locks. In order to get in, you will have to either:
- Warm-up your key a bit using a lighter
- Use a hairdryer to blow how air on the locks
Using hot water is not recommended, as it will probably freeze and cause even greater problems.
Check the other doors and see if any will open.
Dead Car Battery
Another common problem drivers have during the winter is a dead car battery. Some vehicles just won’t start during extreme cold. There are two solutions:
- Using an engine starter kit
- Replacing your battery completely
Taking care of your battery is very important in order to avoid a potential car accident. If you break and your engine shuts down at low RPM, the car behind you may not notice it on time and may hit you, causing damage to you and your vehicle. In that case, your best chance is to contact car accident attorneys in Miami for a free consultation and have them help you secure the compensation you deserve for your damages.
Frozen Windshield Wipers
We have all been in that situation where the wipers simply won’t budge. They are frozen against the glass, and won’t move no matter what we do. The only solution is to head the inside of the car and wait for them to unfreeze. Don’t try doing it by force, as it will only damage (or break) the wipers.
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