Severe frosts are a real test for both the driver and his car. And incorrect actions during the cold season ruin your car and result in huge bills for repairs.
On the page of the website sportkp.ru (18+), the director of the car service, Ivan Krivolutsky, explained which 3 rules are critically important to follow in the winter, so as not to end up in the cold with a stalled car and not suffer serious financial losses.
1. Saving on heating
The most common and expensive mistake is failure to fully warm up. Many, trying to save gas, try to start and drive right away, and in the worst case, they completely leave the car in the cold without starting.
“This is a direct road to a discharged battery, thickened oil and a colossal load on the engine. The amount saved over the winter on fuel will immediately be spent on calling a tow truck, “lighting up”, repairing the starter or, worse, the engine,” warns Krivolutsky.
Use autostart or Webasto preheater. This is the most civilized way. If there is no alarm with auto start, let the car idle for at least 5-10 minutes before driving.
2. Engine without insulation
Sending an engine to spend the night in severe frost without insulation is short-sighted. Sudden cooling makes morning starting difficult and increases wear.
Buy a special car blanket and hood insulation. It significantly slows down engine cooling, retaining residual heat for many hours longer.
Check the battery charge regularly. In winter he works to the limit. Loose terminals or a battery on its last legs will negate all efforts.
3. Warm up without moving
Regularly starting your car to warm it up and then turning it off without leaving the parking lot is a bad practice.
“In this mode, condensation actively forms in the exhaust pipe, which in severe frost quickly turns into an ice plug. The next attempt to start may result in a breakdown or the need for expensive “warming up” in the service,” explains the expert.
If you've already started it, be sure to take it for a ride. 5-10 minutes of movement is enough, even within a yard or area. This will warm up all systems, evaporate moisture from the exhaust and charge the battery.
By following these simple tips, you will not only save your nerves and money, but also significantly extend the life of your car in the harsh winter.
