Debunking Winter Vehicle Maintenance Myths

Winter brings along its own set of challenges, especially for vehicles navigating through snow-covered roads and icy conditions. During the seasonal transition, misconceptions about winter car maintenance tend to circulate, potentially jeopardizing both safety and vehicle performance. Let's dive into debunking some common myths surrounding winter car care.

Myth 1: You don't need to check your tire pressure in the winter.

It's a common misconception that tire pressure remains constant throughout the year. In reality, temperature changes affect tire pressure. As temperatures drop, tire pressure decreases, potentially leading to underinflated tires. Underinflated tires reduce traction, affecting control and handling, particularly on slippery winter roads. Regularly checking tire pressure, including in the winter, ensures optimal tire performance.

Myth 2: 4-wheel drive makes you invincible on winter roads.

While 4-wheel drive enhances traction and stability, it doesn't make your vehicle invincible to winter road hazards. It improves acceleration but doesn't significantly aid in braking or cornering on icy surfaces. Safe driving practices combined with appropriate tires remain crucial, regardless of the driving system. To learn more about drivetrains and the differences, check out our blog post here.

Myth 3: All-season tires are sufficient for winter conditions.

Despite the name, all-season tires may not provide adequate traction in severe winter conditions that we can get in Alberta. Dedicated winter or snow tires offer better grip due to their specialized rubber compound and tread design, enhancing traction on snow and ice. Consider switching to winter tires for improved safety when temperatures drop consistently below 7°C. Read our blog post here for a deep dive into whether Winter tires really make a difference.

Myth 4: Batteries only fail in extreme temperatures.

While extreme cold can strain a car battery, it's not the only factor contributing to battery failure. Cold weather reduces the battery's efficiency, making it harder for the engine to start. Regular maintenance, including checking the battery's charge and connections, is essential to prevent unexpected breakdowns, especially during winter. It's also important to plug in your vehicle during extreme temperature drops to help the battery start easier. Make sure your battery doesn't fail this winter, read our blog post here for more tips.

Myth 5: All fluids resist freezing.

While some fluids have lower freezing points, such as antifreeze/coolant, other essential fluids like brake fluid, transmission fluid, and even windshield washer fluid can thicken or freeze in extremely cold temperatures. Ensuring that all fluids are suitable for colder conditions and regularly checking their levels helps maintain optimal vehicle performance. You can request fluid checks when visiting Quick Lane for your regular scheduled maintenance to ensure you are operating with the right fluids for the season.  

Myth 6: Cold weather doesn't affect tire rubber.

Cold temperatures can indeed affect tire rubber. As temperatures drop, tire rubber can stiffen, reducing its grip and flexibility. Winter tires are manufactured with a different rubber compound to accommodate for this fluctuation and maintain better traction. This reduced flexibility can impact the tire's ability to conform to the road surface, affecting traction. Additionally, extremely cold temperatures can cause rubber to crack or deteriorate over time, emphasizing the importance of regular tire inspections and using the proper tire type for the season. Learn how to inspect your tires fully to ensure your safety here.

In conclusion, debunking these myths is essential for ensuring vehicle safety and optimal performance during the winter months. Regular maintenance, proper tires, and safe driving habits remain key to navigating safely through challenging winter conditions. Taking proactive steps and debunking these myths can go a long way in safeguarding both you and your vehicle on icy roads.

If you're needing to book an appointment for your vehicle or would like a tire quote, click here.  If you're looking for a tire or battery quote, you can also contact our parts team by emailing or calling our team at 780-542-7990 or parts@draytonvalleyford.com