Cars don't like winter. The risk of failure increases by 283%.
In difficult weather conditions, even a serviceable car can break down after a service check. Especially in winter, the risk of breakage of some parts of the car increases.
A report from roadside assistance company Starter shows that a whopping 25% of breakdowns last winter were attributed to battery problems. Low temperatures cause a significant reduction in the electrical capacity of the battery. Even a new, fully working battery, which at 25 ºC has 100 percent. power, at 0 ºC only 80 percent, and in the Arctic 25-degree frost only 60 percent. The starting current also decreases with increasing capacitance. Studies show that at -18 ºC its value is one and a half times lower than at 20 ºC, so in fact we have only half the starting power, and even worse, engine oil, which thickens in the cold, makes it even more difficult to start. turn the engine.
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– Even if we have prepared the car well for the winter, it can break down. Changing a punctured tire in the snow and in strong winds is not a pleasure. The roadsides are usually covered with snow, and the tools freeze to the hands. That is why it is worth providing yourself with a mobile workshop that will help the driver in any weather conditions and at any time,” says Artur Zavorsky, Starter technical specialist.
Engine problems and wheel failures are unpleasant winter surprises. The most common ailments of drive units are mechanical failures, failure of the lubrication system and malfunctions in the pressurization system. One of the most perishable components is the ignition coil, which is very sensitive to moisture, for example. Problems with it can lead to cylinder failure or a complete engine stop.
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The thermostat, which does not look very complicated, can also cause a lot of trouble for drivers. Starting the engine on a frosty morning negatively affects its condition. A damaged thermostat can, for example, prevent the engine from reaching operating temperature. It is also worth considering the injection pump, especially in cars with diesel engines. At low temperatures, the density and lubricity of diesel fuel decrease. Often, in the first bouts of winter, the engines are still running on summer diesel fuel. In this case, breaking is not difficult.
In cold weather, the density of engine oil also increases, due to which the starter, which should drive the engine components, becomes heavier. The risk of damage to it increases when the car refuses to start after the first turn of the ignition key. Remember that electricity consumption increases in winter. As a result of turning on the headlights, ventilation and heating of the rear window, the generator is loaded to the limit. Salt on the roads also negatively affects its condition when the engine compartment is not airtight enough.
– Awareness of the dangers of low temperatures is worth its weight in gold, but remember that being ready to drive in winter is not only about changing tires and driving responsibly. It's also the perfect time to think about roadside assistance,” said Artur Zaworski, Starter's technical specialist.
