Weather changes have the potential to affect your vehicle, which could put you at risk of getting into an accident. As the weather cools, you need to be prepared to perform maintenance and to keep your car in tip-top shape.
When you think of the winter, you probably begin to think about putting on a hat or using more moisturizer to combat dry, heated air. Think the same way for your vehicle. You should make sure to check its antifreeze levels and allow it to warm up before you drive. Check the air pressure in the tires as the temperatures drop; in the same way you might shiver or pull away from something cold, the air inside tires also retracts, making them prone to becoming flat.
Metal, plastic and glass all have the potential to shrink or break when the weather changes. To avoid extreme changes in the materials of your vehicle, it’s a good idea to park in a covered area or inside a garage if you can. If you don’t plan to drive for a while, cover your vehicle with a tarp to prevent ice and snow from getting into the crevices, freezing and cracking. Don’t throw hot water on your vehicle to thaw snow or ice, and avoid driving too quickly after a freeze; give your vehicle a chance to warm up slowly and adjust.
Be mindful of the changes taking place. Your vehicle is a way to get from place to place, but it requires some time to adjust to the winter, too. A vehicle inspection can help you make sure it’s ready for winter weather.
Source: RadAir, “Can Weather Changes Affect My Car?,” accessed Nov. 29, 2017
