Get Your Car Back-to-School Ready with Family Tire and Automotive

As we bid adieu to the cooler days and gear up for the warmer embrace of spring in Texas, it's crucial to ensure your vehicle is primed and ready to handle the transition.

Introduction Winter's icy grip doesn't just affect the roads we drive on; it also impacts the vehicles we drive. Understanding how cold weather can affect your car's performance is crucial for maintaining it properly during the winter months. In this post, we'll explore the various ways cold weather impacts different aspects of your car and provide tips on how to mitigate these effects. Battery Performance in Cold Weather Cold temperatures can significantly reduce the efficiency of your car's battery. The chemical reactions required to generate power are slower at lower temperatures, reducing the battery's ability to hold a charge. It's important to check your battery's charge level and consider keeping a portable charger or jumper cables handy. Tire Pressure Fluctuations Tire pressure decreases in cold weather because air contracts when it cools. This under-inflation can lead to uneven tire wear and reduced traction, which is particularly dangerous on icy or snowy roads. Regularly check your tire pressure throughout the winter to ensure it matches the recommended levels. Fluids Thickening Your car's fluids, including oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, can thicken in cold temperatures. Thicker oil doesn't circulate as efficiently, meaning your engine might not be getting the lubrication it needs during startup. Using winter-grade oil, which is designed to stay fluid in cold weather, can help prevent this issue. Impact on Fuel Efficiency Cold weather can also affect your car's fuel efficiency. Your engine takes longer to reach its most efficient temperature, leading to more fuel consumption. Additionally, using the heater, heated seats, and other electrical systems puts extra load on the engine, further reducing fuel efficiency. Wiper Blades and Windshield Washer Fluid In winter, your wiper blades work overtime to clear away snow and ice. However, cold temperatures can make the rubber blades stiff and less effective. Consider switching to winter wiper blades and use windshield washer fluid with antifreeze to prevent freezing. Starting Problems Cars often struggle to start in cold weather. Besides battery issues, motor oil thickens in cold temperatures, making it harder for the engine to turn over. Using the right grade of oil for winter can alleviate this problem. Preparing an Emergency Kit It’s wise to prepare for the unexpected. Keep an emergency kit in your car with items like blankets, extra winter clothing, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, food, and water.  Conclusion The impact of cold weather on your car can range from mildly inconvenient to potentially dangerous. Regular maintenance and a few winter-specific adjustments can help ensure your vehicle remains reliable and safe throughout the season. Remember, Family Tire and Automotive is here to assist with all your winter car care needs, from battery checks to oil changes.

We understand that tires are one of the most crucial components of your vehicle, yet they are often overlooked

Fluid Fundamentals: Maintaining Your Car's Vital Lifelines