Winter: how to protect your car from the cold?

In winter, it is important to protect your car from the harmful effects of the cold. Here are 8 tips that will help you avoid problems.

Many French people have no choice but to leave their car outside during winter nights. And this, because they do not have a garage or a place in a protected parking lot. So here are some tips to better protect your vehicle when exposed to freezing temperatures.

Cover the car with a tarp in winter

The tarpaulin is a tool that is both simple and effective . By covering your car , you will avoid the effects of snow and rain. You can protect your car with a plastic or velvet cover. That will protect the windows and your mirrors . All while saving you the hassle of defrosting in the morning.

Before leaving your car, don't let your battery get cold , as it affects its potency. Old batteries are most likely to experience this problem. In order to better protect this element, you can add a cover on your hood .

If you plan to leave your car outside for a long period of time, we advise you to remove the battery . It will then be necessary put it in a cool, dry place to preserve the charge .

Opt for antifreeze liquids

In winter, it is necessary to use liquid that does not freeze. Whether for engine oil, coolant or windshield washer fluid, check your products carefully . You will face serious problems if these solidify.

in winter, choose quality products , because the latter already contain antifreeze elements. If you already use this type of product, it will no longer be necessary to change them .

Protect soft parts

Flexible rubber parts are sensitive to temperature variations . Remember to protect your windscreen wipers and seals on your vehicle. By raising your windshield wipers, you will prevent them from do not freeze with the windshield .

As for door and trunk seals, the solution will be to coat them with Marseille soap , talc or lubricant. This will prevent you from accidentally tearing them off. Indeed, the joints can stick together after spending a freezing night.

Don't forget to check your tire pressure

The drop in temperature causes a change in tire pressure. In order to avoid unpleasant surprises, do not forget to check the pressure regularly of your tires.

Note that there is a trick for compensate for the effects of cold on the tires in winter . Just add 0.2 bar when the tire is still cold. This preventive action is not to be underestimated during the winter period.

Check the engine cover

Before starting your engine, remember to check under the car or open the hood . Indeed, cats can take refuge there during the winter. Accidents often occur due to animals taking cover under a car. The latter are just looking for a warm place to take refuge. So be watch out for it .

Winter: don't let your engine run unnecessarily

There was a time when it was necessary to let the engine run before driving . This practice was necessary in the days of vehicles running on a carburetor. However, car manufacturers have abandoned this room for decades .

There is currently no need to leave the engine running to warm up your engine in winter . This is even counterproductive, since it consumes fuel unnecessarily. In addition to paying more at the pump, this practice could result in a fine of 135 euros .

Check the condition of your windshield wipers

When your vehicle spends its nights outside during the winter, its wipers tend to wear out faster . The manufacturers also recommend replace them at least twice a year . And this, in order to guarantee their effectiveness.

You can also use rainproof treatments to promote visibility . This type of treatment is effective since it preserves the windows during scratching sessions.

Keep the reservoir at a high level during the winter

Fuel is expensive. However, driving with the tank at a very low level can cause problems in the winter . To avoid any risk of freezing inside the ducts, keep a certain high level of reserve in your gas tank.

Source : Ladepeche