As sub-freezing temperatures grip the region and much of the country, AAA is urging drivers to ensure their vehicles are ready for the harsh winter conditions. This week’s teens and single-digit temperatures highlight the importance of proactive car maintenance to avoid breakdowns and ensure safety.
“Being stuck along the side of the road is inconvenient at any time, but in the extreme cold, it is potentially unsafe for drivers and passengers alike,” said Ragina Ali, spokesperson for AAA in Maryland and Washington, D.C. “It’s critical to check your car’s battery, tires, fluids, wiper blades, and pack a vehicle emergency kit. A little preparation can go a long way.”
Key Winter Car Maintenance Tips
Battery
Cold weather significantly reduces battery performance, with starting power dropping by 35% at 32°F and 60% at 0°F. A battery’s average lifespan is 3–5 years, so checking its health is crucial in winter.
Tires
Properly inflated tires with good tread are essential for traction on icy or snowy roads. Tire pressure decreases by about 1 pound per 10°F drop in temperature. Check your tire pressure against the vehicle-specific recommendation found on the driver’s-side door placard, not the tire sidewall, which shows maximum pressure.
Fluids
Antifreeze should have a 50/50 ratio with water to function properly in freezing conditions. This can be checked with a battery hydrometer. Ensure windshield washer fluid is full and formulated to withstand freezing temperatures, as winter roads demand frequent use to maintain visibility. For more insights on how to protect your engine and ensure optimal performance in cold weather, Jenny Chem offers a helpful breakdown of what antifreeze is and why it’s vital during winter months.
Wiper Blades
Worn wiper blades compromise visibility, especially during winter storms. Avoid using wipers to clear frost or ice, as it damages the rubber blades. Inspect wipers regularly and replace them at least once a year or sooner if they’re damaged.
Warming Up Your Car
For vehicles manufactured in 2007 or later, warming the engine for extended periods is unnecessary. It only takes 30 seconds for proper lubrication, and driving the vehicle is the fastest way to warm the cabin. Prolonged idling wastes fuel and can be illegal in many states if the car is left unattended. If you choose to warm your car, ensure proper ventilation by opening the garage door to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Emergency Road Kit
Prepare a winter emergency kit to handle potential roadside issues. AAA recommends including:
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight with batteries
- Flares or reflective triangles
- Warm blanket
- Ice scraper and de-icer spray
- Collapsible snow shovel
- Rock salt or kitty litter for traction
- First-aid kit
- Drinking water and non-perishable snacks
- An external battery source for cell phones
“With preventive maintenance, a properly stocked emergency kit, and a little patience, you can mitigate the harshness of Old Man Winter while staying safe,” Ali added.
