How Extreme Weather Affects Your Car’s Performance
Cars are designed to withstand a wide range of weather conditions, but extreme weather—whether scorching heat, freezing cold, heavy rain, or intense snow—can seriously impact your vehicle’s performance and safety. At Schimpf’s Garage, we’ve spent decades diagnosing and repairing the damage caused by extreme weather conditions, and we’re here to share some essential insights to keep your car running smoothly, no matter the forecast.
The Impact of Hot Weather
When summer temperatures soar, your vehicle faces challenges that can significantly affect performance:
Battery Problems
Extreme heat accelerates battery fluid evaporation, leading to battery corrosion, decreased battery life, and potential failure. If your battery is older or already weakened, summer heat can push it over the edge.
Engine Overheating
High temperatures place extra stress on your engine and cooling system. This can lead to overheating, coolant leaks, and even catastrophic engine damage if ignored. Regularly check your coolant levels and ensure your cooling system is functioning properly to prevent overheating issues.
Tire Pressure and Blowouts
As temperatures rise, the air inside your tires expands. This can cause tire pressure to increase dramatically, making tires vulnerable to blowouts and uneven wear. Always monitor your tire pressure in the summer months and adjust it as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Fuel Efficiency Drop
Heat can negatively affect fuel efficiency because hot air is less dense, providing less oxygen for the combustion process. This leads to decreased mileage and higher fuel costs, particularly noticeable during extended periods of hot weather.
Winter’s Harsh Effects
Cold winter months bring their own unique set of challenges:
Battery Strain
Freezing temperatures slow chemical reactions within the battery, weakening its charge and often leaving drivers stranded. Older batteries may not survive winter conditions, making it critical to test your battery’s strength before winter sets in.
Thickening Fluids
Cold weather causes engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid to thicken, impairing their flow and performance. Thickened fluids can lead to difficulty starting your car, slower gear shifts, and reduced braking efficiency. Switching to winter-grade fluids can mitigate these risks.
3. Tire Traction Issues
Snow, ice, and slush dramatically reduce tire traction, increasing the risk of sliding and accidents. Winter tires or all-season tires with adequate tread depth are essential for maintaining grip in icy conditions.
4. Decreased Fuel Efficiency
Cold air and winter driving habits, such as prolonged idling and increased use of heating systems, lead to reduced fuel efficiency. This means you’ll spend more time—and money—at the pump during winter months.
Heavy Rain and Flooding
Rainy weather introduces hazards that are often underestimated:
1. Reduced Visibility
Heavy rainfall drastically reduces visibility, increasing accident risks. Always ensure your windshield wipers are in excellent condition and use headlights appropriately to improve visibility.
2. Aquaplaning Risks
When water accumulates on roads, your tires can lose contact with the surface—a condition known as aquaplaning. This leads to loss of steering, braking, and acceleration control. Properly inflated tires with sufficient tread depth help reduce aquaplaning risk.
3. Flood Damage
Driving through deep water can cause severe damage to engines, transmissions, and electrical systems. Water intake into the engine or transmission can lead to catastrophic mechanical failure. Avoid flooded roads whenever possible.
Snow and Ice Conditions
Extreme winter weather with heavy snow and ice presents serious driving hazards:
1. Frozen Fuel Lines
Sub-zero temperatures can cause condensation in your fuel tank to freeze, blocking fuel lines and preventing the engine from starting. Keeping your fuel tank at least half-full can minimize this risk.
2. Suspension and Alignment Issues
Potholes, exacerbated by freezing and thawing cycles, damage suspension systems and throw off wheel alignment. Poor alignment not only affects driving comfort but can also lead to premature tire wear and reduced safety.
3. Corrosion from Road Salt
Salt used on roads during snowy conditions can accelerate rust and corrosion on your vehicle’s undercarriage, brake lines, and exhaust system. Regular washing and protective treatments can significantly slow corrosion.
Protecting Your Car from Extreme Weather
Here are some proactive measures to safeguard your vehicle against extreme weather:
- Regular Maintenance Checks: Seasonal maintenance checks help catch problems early. At Schimpf’s Garage, we thoroughly inspect your vehicle to prepare it for the season ahead.
- Battery and Fluid Checks: Regularly test and maintain your battery and fluid levels. Our experts can help determine the best fluids and battery type for your vehicle and driving conditions.
- Tire Maintenance: Check your tire pressure regularly and switch to appropriate tires based on seasonal needs.
- Cooling System Inspection: Ensure your cooling system, including the radiator and hoses, is in optimal condition to prevent overheating issues during hot weather.
- Rust Prevention: Regular washing and protective coatings can help prevent rust caused by road salt.
Trust Schimpf’s Garage for Expert Care
At Schimpf’s Garage, our team brings over 60 years of combined experience providing specialized auto repairs in Somerdale, NJ, and the tri-state area. We offer comprehensive services including advanced diagnostics, engine repairs, suspension maintenance, and unique mobile alignment services for commercial vehicles. Our experts understand the intricacies of each vehicle and tailor repairs to deliver optimal performance, safety, and reliability.
Don’t let extreme weather compromise your car’s performance or safety. Schedule an appointment with Schimpf’s Garage today, and let our professionals keep your vehicle in peak condition, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
