Winter has arrived, bringing with it that icy air that makes us seek shelter. But have you ever stopped to think about how the cold affects your four-wheeled companion? Even without the snow seen in other countries, the low temperatures in many regions require special attention to ensure your vehicle keeps running smoothly without surprises.
Why Is My Car Hard to Start in the Cold?
Difficulty starting your car on cold days is a common problem, especially in older vehicles without advanced electronic fuel injection or preheating systems. Keeping the fuel system in pristine condition is the first step to avoiding this headache and ensuring the engine responds promptly.
Filling up at trusted stations and never running on reserve minimizes impurity buildup, which can “freeze” or hinder combustion in low temperatures. Célio Ruiz, an expert at Henkel, emphasizes that “older cars without preheating systems are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations…” Fuel residues can be the silent villain. Using specific products for cleaning the fuel system, recommended by experts, helps ensure proper function and prevents failures at crucial moments.
Does the Cold Damage My Car’s Paint?
It may not seem obvious, but the tricky combination of cold and moisture can be ruthless on your vehicle’s bodywork. It causes microcracks invisible to the naked eye and accelerates wear, especially if the car is exposed to the elements, losing that original shine we all value.
Applying quality protectants to body panels and more vulnerable areas creates a barrier against this damage and helps preserve the original finish.
Strange Noises in the Car During Winter? Here’s Why
Low temperatures cause materials like metals and rubber to contract. This contraction can increase friction and generate annoying noises in doors, hoods, and other joints, turning a peaceful trip into a symphony of creaks.
Regular lubrication eliminates these creaks and ensures smooth operation of moving parts. “It’s very common for cars to have creaks and sticking in doors and hoods during winter,” says Célio Ruiz, suggesting a “good quality multi-purpose lubricant” like LOCTITE® Super Lub for a quick and effective fix, without needing to dismantle anything.
Should I Use the Air Conditioner in Winter?
It may seem counterintuitive, but air conditioning is not just for cooling off in the heat. In winter, it’s a powerful ally to heat the cabin and, crucially, prevent window fogging, greatly improving visibility and safety on cold, damp days.
Running the system regularly and keeping the ducts clean prevents unpleasant odors and moisture buildup, which can become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms. Célio Ruiz warns: “Regular use of the air conditioner prevents the system from sitting idle and accumulating moisture. It’s also important to do preventive cleaning and filter changes, which are often overlooked but especially important during this time.”
Specific products like LOCTITE® Fresh Air are recommended for this deep cleaning, offering a “three-in-one” effect: cleaning, odor neutralization, and support in controlling microorganisms inside the vehicle. A simple care that makes a big difference in the air quality you breathe inside your car.
Vital Care: Radiator Fluid in the Cold? Why It’s Important
Although freezing is rare, radiator fluid is vital year-round. Keeping the correct level and using the additive specified by the manufacturer protects against overheating (yes, it also regulates high temperatures!) and internal corrosion of the cooling system, prolonging your engine’s lifespan.
A simple preventive check can avoid costly problems later. “Even in mild temperatures, lack of additive reduces oxidation protection and can cause damage to the engine block,” explains Célio, emphasizing: “The ideal is to use products recommended by the manufacturer and never top off with plain water.” This is a care tip that applies all year long, but becomes even more critical as temperatures drop.
Essential Winter Checklist: What Not to Forget?
Besides the key points we mentioned, winter is a great trigger for a more comprehensive inspection. Checking crucial items ensures you won’t be caught off guard on the road and can drive with full confidence, even in cold and rainy weather.
Winter Inspection Key Points:
- Check the electrical system (battery, lights)
- Check tire pressure and general condition
- Evaluate the entire brake system
Preventive maintenance, as Célio Ruiz concludes, is the “best way to avoid setbacks and ensure optimal vehicle performance, regardless of the season.” Investing in high-performance products and correct application makes all the difference in this process, especially during more demanding periods like winter, ensuring your car is always ready for the adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Maintenance
- Why is the car hard to start in the cold? Cold can affect oil viscosity and battery efficiency, making starting difficult, especially in fuel systems with impurities or lacking preheating.
- Does winter moisture damage the paint? Yes, the combination of cold and moisture can lead to microcracks and accelerate paint wear, making protection essential.
- Can I top off radiator fluid with just water? It’s not recommended. Plain water doesn’t contain the additives needed to protect the system from corrosion and ensure ideal temperature control in different weather conditions. Always use the additive recommended by the manufacturer.
- Is it important to use the air conditioner in winter? Yes. Besides heating, it helps defog windows quickly and keeps the vehicle’s interior dry, preventing odors and moisture buildup.
In my experience, winter car care goes beyond just avoiding immediate problems. It’s an investment in the vehicle’s longevity and the peace of mind of the driver. The tips, especially about basics like fuel and fluids, are gold for cars that have seen a lot of miles or face more severe climates. Small precautions now avoid big headaches and unnecessary expenses later, letting you enjoy the season worry-free.
What do you do to protect your car from the cold? Share your experiences and tips in the comments!
Author: Fabio Isidoro
Fabio Isidoro is the founder and editor-in-chief of Canal Carro, where he has been writing about the automotive world since 2022. Passionate about cars and technology, he began his journey on the HospedandoSites portal and today dedicates himself to creating technical content and comprehensive analyses of national and international vehicles. 📩 Contact: contato@canalcarro.net.br