During the winter season, it is essential to pay special attention to vehicle maintenance to ensure optimal performance and safety in challenging weather conditions. Checking the major components is essential to withstand the rigors of winter.

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential to ensure safe contact with the road and prevent slipping, which can lead to accidents. Photo: Shutterstock

Carlos Charcousse, e-commerce and marketing manager de Repuestos Mansuera, emphasizes the importance of checking the cooling system, ensuring the correct coolant/antifreeze mixture and checking the lighting system.

William Herrera, instructor at Teojama Comercial, adds that in cold areas the vehicle is more susceptible to mechanical damage and emphasizes the need to check the condition of the tires. “Considering this option can prevent situations such as hydroplaning or aquaplaning,” which refers to the loss of contact with the asphalt. Therefore, among the most important aspects to take into account are the cutting, which must have a minimum depth of two to three millimeters, alignment and balancing, and pressure.

Important tips for driving in heavy traffic and rain

When starting from cold, it is advisable to let the engine idle so that it warms up without suddenly accelerating and to prevent damage.

William Herrera, Teojama Commercial instructor

While many mechanical components are resistant to climate changes, there are parts that are more affected by cold temperatures. “The battery is most vulnerable in winter. Therefore, you should keep it charged, avoid excessive use of electrical appliances when the engine is off and consider using thermal blankets,” says Charcousse. Likewise, Herrera emphasizes the importance of knowing the age of the battery and replacing it if it has exceeded its lifespan, which is usually two to four years.

With temperature changes it is crucial to apply the ‘see and be seen’ principle. Herrera warns of the possibility of moisture leaking into the lighting system, affecting visibility. Charcousse emphasizes that all lights, including brake and turn signals, must function properly and emphasizes the importance of regular cleaning.

Be careful with the gearbox when parking an automatic

In winter, the climate control system not only ensures comfort, but also prevents condensation in the vehicle, keeping the windows fog-free and improving visibility for safer driving. Photo: Shutterstock

Using engine oil with the correct viscosity for low temperatures ensures optimal performance.

Carlos Charcousse, e-commerce and marketing manager of Repuestos Mansuera.

Essential checks in winter

Carlos Charcousse, manage e-commerce and marketingr from Repuestos Mansuera, indicates some considerations to take to protect the vehicle:

Properly maintaining the car, from thoroughly checking key components to using the right engine oil, not only contributes to optimal car performance, but also safety in challenging weather conditions. (JO)