How to prepare your car for winter and avoid unexpected problems

When the cold season arrives, every car owner should pay special attention to preparing their vehicle. This not only ensures comfort but also protects the car from the negative effects of winter weather such as snow, dirt, and salt. In this article, we will look at the key steps that will help protect both the exterior and interior of your car.

Battery Check

One of the most common winter problems is a dead battery. Research shows that at -18°C, battery performance can drop by 60% compared to its normal capacity. This means that batteries are under increased load, which can lead to sudden failures. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is recommended to check the condition of the battery in advance. If its service life is coming to an end or it shows signs of wear (such as slow engine starts), it’s worth considering replacing it.

Checking and Replacing Fluids

For your car to function reliably in the winter, it is necessary to check the levels of all technical fluids. It’s important to remember that antifreeze has a limited service life. According to a study conducted by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), about 30% of winter breakdowns are related to the use of old or low-quality antifreeze. Don’t forget to check the condition of brake fluid and oil as well. In winter conditions, it’s especially important that the fluids are suited to low temperatures and perform their functions properly.

Tire Check

In winter, road grip plays a key role in safety. Statistics show that using winter tires reduces the risk of accidents on snowy roads by 42%. Worn or insufficient tread depth on tires can lead to accidents. For cold weather, it’s best to use winter tires that provide better grip on snowy and icy surfaces. It’s also important to check tire pressure, as it can decrease in cold weather, which affects the car’s handling.

Installing New Floor Mats

In winter, a car’s interior often suffers from snow and dirt that gets inside with your shoes. To protect the interior, it’s best to use rubber floor mats, which are easy to clean and waterproof. Car mats for Audi A3 will be a solution to maintain cleanliness and protect from water and dirt. They will help prevent unpleasant odors from moisture that may seep into textile mats.

Lighting Update

Winter days are short, and drivers often need to travel in the dark. According to statistics, about 30% of all winter accidents are caused by poor visibility. Make sure all your car’s headlights are working properly, and replace headlight bulbs if necessary. If needed, replace the bulbs with brighter ones or update the headlights with modern technology, such as LED or xenon lights. This will improve visibility on the road and reduce the risk of accidents.

Basic statistical data

Conclusion

Properly preparing your car for winter will not only save you money on repairs but also increase safety in difficult weather conditions. By following the steps listed above, you will protect both the exterior and interior of your car from the effects of snow, salt, and dirt, and ensure comfort and safety during the cold months.