What to do so that the car does not freeze?
Low temperatures significantly complicate the operation of vehicles. It is worth knowing what needs to be done so that our car does not freeze.
The main thing is to properly prepare the car for the winter, especially for frost. However, if we did not have time to do this, in order to avoid trouble, it is necessary to take some of the most important steps:
1. Drain all water from the tank and fuel system.
Water can accumulate in the fuel system. If necessary, it should be removed in a specialized service or after checking the recommendations of the vehicle manufacturer by adding a special additive.
2. Replace the fuel filter.
Water can also accumulate in the fuel filter. This poses a serious threat to the functioning of any fuel system - whenever the temperature drops below 0°C. Frozen water restricts the supply of an adequate amount of fuel, which in turn can cause engine malfunction or even stop. The fuel filter should be replaced with a new one.
3. Check the battery charge status.
The battery plays a key role in starting the engine. It is good to check the degree of wear in a car repair shop. It is worth remembering that the battery should be changed no more than once every 5 years, regardless of the mileage of the car.
4. Refuel with winter fuel.
This is especially important in the case of diesel fuel and autogas (LPG). Fuel adapted to winter conditions should be available at all company filling stations in the country.
What to do if the diesel does not start?
First of all, you should stop trying to start the engine again so as not to damage the fuel system components, the starter or the battery. Then the car must be put in a room (garage, covered parking) with a positive temperature and left for several hours. After such an operation, the car can be started again without the help of a mechanic.
If the engine starts successfully, add a so-called depressant (available at gas stations), which will increase the resistance of the fuel to the precipitation of paraffin crystals in it. Then go to the gas station and fill up with winter diesel fuel. If the engine still does not start after the vehicle has warmed up, contact a qualified service center for assistance.
What should I do if my diesel car "starts to stutter" when driving in cold weather?
In such a situation, you can continue to drive in low gears and not too high engine speeds to get to the gas station, where you can fill up with winter diesel fuel. After that, you can try to continue driving, at first also avoiding high speeds, until the previous symptoms disappear. If the "engine misfire" continues, visit a garage and report the previous action taken.
See also:
What to look for when traveling in winter
Wash your car wisely in winter
