Winter driving presents some challenges to even the most experienced drivers. And it’s not just ice and snow that can make safe driving difficult at times. Cold weather alone can affect your vehicle, landing it in the auto repair shop. With proper preparation and some simple driving tips, though, you can stay safe and prevent problems all season. 

Reducing the Effects of Cold on Your Car  

Falling temperatures can reduce your tire pressure; in general, pressure decreases by one pound per square inch (PSI) for every 10 degree drop in temperature.

Your tire pressure indicator light may illuminate when you start the car, but if it doesn’t go out after about 20 minutes of driving (which warms up the air and restores pressure) have the tire pressure checked. Underinflated tires affect handling, creating a safety hazard on the road. 

Cold weather also means keeping your gas tank at least half full at all times. Without enough gas in the tank, water vapor can build up and freeze the gas line, rendering the vehicle inoperable until they thaw.

Cold weather can also affect the battery, so bring your car to an auto repair shop for a tuneup and inspection before the winter to make sure your battery, lights, fluids, and tires are in good shape so you don't have problems due to weather. 

Driving Safely  

As a general rule, the best way to handle driving in winter weather is to go slow, take care when accelerating and decelerating, and increase your following distance.

Never slam your brakes; doing so causes your tires to lose traction, increasing skidding and sliding. Instead, if you need to stop (or you start to skid) ease off the accelerator and gently apply pressure to the brakes to come to a stop.

If you do have a collision or get stuck in the snow, having an emergency kit in your vehicle will keep you safe until help arrives. Carry an extra blanket, winter clothing, and nonperishable snacks in your car, along with an auto repair kit that includes jumper cables, a flashlight, snow shovel and scraper, and flares. Stay with your vehicle, and make it as visible as possible, until you get help. 

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things go wrong. If you have been in a collision, bring your vehicle to Jerry Ernst Auto Body, a locally owned auto repair shop that’s served the East Side of Cincinnati, OH, and Northern Kentucky for the last 40 years. A member of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence and a BBB® accredited business, all work comes with a lifetime warranty from certified technicians. Call (513) 871-7200 today for a free estimate or visit the shop online for collision repair details. Get more driver safety tips on Facebook.