Winter Car Care: Tips to Keep Your Ride Running Smoothly in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As the temperature drops, it’s that time of year when we need to pay a little extra attention to our trusty vehicles. With the cold weather hitting Charlotte, it’s not just our fingers that get chilly; our cars can also suffer if we aren’t careful. The last thing anyone wants is to be left stranded in the freezing cold due to a preventable car issue.
Cold Weather Concerns
According to Kevin Davis, the service manager at CMD Automotive, low temperatures can reveal all sorts of hidden problems under the hood. “Cars in general just don’t like cold temperatures,” Davis explains. He emphasizes that when the temperature dips below freezing, certain parts of our vehicles become more susceptible to damage, leading to leaks and breaks. “Water pumps, radiators, radiator hoses—these things are going to let you down when it gets really cold,” he says.
Davis highlights that components that are usually durable can suddenly become fragile in the cold, and that might mean trouble if we’re not vigilant. “Anything that can potentially be more fragile when it’s cold outside or more brittle when it’s cold outside is definitely going to be that way in these chilly months,” he adds.
The Reality of Charlotte Winters
Charlotte has already experienced its share of bone-chilling 20-degree temperatures, and with that, many drivers have begun to worry about their vehicles. James Gorman, one of the owners of CMD Automotive, shares his experience: “If I wake up in the morning and look at the temperature gauge, I can tell you right away how the day is going to go.”
To avoid an unexpected day spent troubleshooting car issues, Gorman encourages drivers to check a few things before that dreaded “Check Engine” light starts glowing. *Here’s a handy checklist to get you started:*
- Radiator Cap: Make sure it’s filled with the proper level of coolant.
- Belt Inspection: Take a good look at your belts to ensure they aren’t cracked.
- Batteries: In colder weather, inspect your battery for any fuzzy build-up around the terminals—this could be a sign of trouble.
Don’t Forget Those Tires!
And let’s not forget about those tires! Gorman reminds us that low tire pressure is another common issue during winter months. “If it goes from 60 to 40 degrees overnight, you’ll lose a few pounds, but if it drops from 40 down to 20, those tire pressure lights will come on. Always check your tire pressure regularly,” he warns.
So what should you do? Gorman has an easy solution: “You can adjust your tire pressure in the cold weather and then just readjust it as spring rolls around.” This simple act can save you from a lot of trouble later on!
Stay Proactive with Preventive Check-ups
Now, if the thought of checking everything on your own feels overwhelming, don’t fret! Davis mentioned that it’s perfectly okay to ask for help. “We have customers all the time that bring their vehicles in and say, *‘Hey, we’re going on a road trip. Can you check it over for us?’*” A proactive check can make all the difference in ensuring your car is ready to take on those chilly roads.
Taking care of your vehicle not only saves you time and money but also keeps you safe on the road. As Davis wisely notes, “Just use good common sense. If it’s something that doesn’t feel right or doesn’t look normal or doesn’t sound normal, get it checked before you’re stuck on the side of the road in freezing temperatures.”
So put on that cozy sweater, grab a warm drink, and take a moment to pamper your car. Your ride will thank you—and so will your future self!
