Adverse weather conditions in winter can affect vehicle performance and safety, so be extra careful on cold days
With winter approaching, it is essential that drivers are prepared for certain adverse conditions on a daily basis. Although Brazil is a country where the coldest low temperatures occur mainly in the southern and southeast regions, proper car maintenance during this season is essential to ensure safety and performance.
Due to these adverse conditions, one of the main problems is related to starting the vehicle, because at low temperatures the conditions for starting the vehicle are altered. Check out some tips for keeping vehicles running smoothly this time of year:
. Brake fluid: due to thermal variations in winter, the brake fluid can absorb humidity from the environment. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, which means it has the ability to absorb moisture from the air. Moisture tends to enter the brake system through various places such as the fuel cap or hoses, especially if they are worn or damaged. The presence of moisture in the brake fluid is a problem because it can lead to the formation of vapor bubbles during the use of the brakes. The vapor is compressible, unlike the fluid, which can lead to a loss of efficiency of the braking system and compromise the safety of the vehicle.
. Battery: cold weather can reduce the battery’s charge capacity. Lead-acid batteries, commonly used in motor vehicles, are particularly affected by low temperatures. The capacity of a battery is related to the chemical reaction that takes place inside it to generate electricity. At lower temperatures, the rate of this chemical reaction slows down, which results in a reduction in the battery’s charge capacity. Therefore, during the winter or in extremely cold conditions, the battery capacity may decrease significantly. In addition, the cold also increases the internal resistance of the battery, which makes it difficult to release energy. This means that the battery may have difficulty providing the current needed to start the vehicle or power the electrical systems. Therefore, it is important to regularly check the battery charge and clean the terminals to ensure a solid connection keeps the battery in good condition. Today there are equipment that allows you to test the charge of the batteries, and to inform through reports if they are still in good conditions of use.
. Cabin filter: on colder days the use of the vehicle’s ventilation system is greater, therefore cleaning the cabin filter and the air conditioning is essential, as the filter retains dust, pollutants and allergens present in the outside air, providing a cleaner and healthier indoor environment. It also helps maintain good window visibility: during the winter, it is normal to experience increased humidity inside the vehicle due to weather conditions. A clogged or dirty cabin filter can restrict the flow of air entering the ventilation system and consequently make it difficult to demist the windows. Regular replacement of the cabin filter ensures proper air circulation, which helps prevent fogging of the windows and maintain good visibility. Therefore, it is recommended that you check your vehicle manual to determine the correct replacement frequency.
. Cold Start System: Designed to provide additional fuel to the engine during cranking, making it easier and quicker to start the engine in cold weather, the system has a tank (most often located under the engine hood) that must always be supplied with petrol. Some tips for the winter period:
– Use good quality fuel, such as premium or premium gasoline, for better vaporization at low temperatures;
– Avoid accelerating the engine excessively before switching it off to avoid accumulation of unburned fuel;
– Regularly check the vehicle’s fluid levels;
– Be patient when starting, as the engine may take longer to start in cold weather and;
– Consult the owner’s manual for specific information on the cold start system and winter maintenance.
For Evandro Leal, process analyst at DPaschoal, cars need special care during the period of low temperatures, so it is important to always be aware of the possible signs that may arise. “Every vehicle behaves differently during the winter.
By following these maintenance tips, the rider will surely be better prepared to face the challenging conditions this season. Furthermore, in some parts of Brazil, it is important to adapt your driving in relation to the weather and road conditions, reducing your speed and increasing your safety distance due to the high incidence of fog and even roads with thin layers of ice. It is important to maintain proper vehicle maintenance to ensure everyone’s safety,” confirms Evandro.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
