Note that diesel fuel can ‘thicken’ and become less free-flowing in cold conditions, too – another obstacle for your car to overcome in winter. You can cut the risk of water ingress by keeping your car’s fuel tank close to full, thereby reducing the likelihood of condensation. However, certain additives can reduce contamination by using alcohol to hold water in suspension, then passing it out through the exhaust. If your car has water in its fuel lines, you may need to have the system professionally flushed. The engine may even cut out altogether while driving. Car fuel system issue symptomsĪside from the engine not starting, other symptoms of fuel system problems include a stuttering engine – particularly when accelerating – and a generally jerky feel to the car’s power delivery. These are very narrow and can be blocked by tiny ice particles, starving the engine of fuel. The issue is most acute in the fuel lines, which feed the individual injectors. This can cause combustion problems and, if cold weather makes the water freeze, prevent the engine running altogether. Over time, car fuel systems may become contaminated with water. You could also inject the lock with the appropriate anti-freeze or spray it with WD40. If locks are frozen, try warming your key. It’s best to apply with a cloth so you don’t spray polish on to the vehicle’s paintwork. Use a little silicone-based furniture polish on the rubber door seals – it helps prevent doors getting stuck when it freezes.These two tips could save you some much-needed time: Get your battery properly tested, particularly if it is over three years old.Īnd, sometimes it can be difficult just getting into your car. Park your vehicle in a garage if you can, especially in very cold temperatures. Some satnavs, in-car DVD players and MP3 players can also drain the battery if left connected.Ĭheck that there are no interior lights (including boot lights) left on – or any accessories such as phone chargers left plugged in. They all put high demands on the vehicle’s battery. When the engine is off, clean it off using a wire brush, or ask a mechanic to do so.Ĭheck that everything is switched off before turning the ignition on.Īvoid using heaters, heated screens and heated seats for longer than you have to. Look for corrosion on the battery clamps and cables. This prevents any unnecessary drain on the battery the next time you start up. Switch off all loads, including the lights, wipers, heater and radio before turning off your engine at the end of a journey.What else can I do to help my battery during winter?Ī bit of basic preparation and maintenance can work wonders for battery life. We recommend visiting our car battery section or calling The RAC Battery Fitting Service on 0333 2000 999. If you are finding your battery isn’t holding a charge very well, it might be time to replace it. Older, weaker batteries will typically have reduced performance and cold temperatures can reduce this even further, to the point where the battery will discharge or go flat very quickly.
#What does crack open a cold one mean how to#
You can find more about how to charge car batteries on our car battery chargers page. If you are using your car regularly for short trips, it may be worth charging your battery at least once a week during the winter months, particularly if it is more than three years old. With more and more vehicle equipment demanding electricity, battery maintenance is more important than ever.Ĭold temperatures affect the chemical process that produces and stores electricity inside the battery, slowing the battery down and reducing its ability to hold a charge. How can I maintain my battery during the winter?
#What does crack open a cold one mean free#
We can deliver the battery to you, and fitting is free for RAC breakdown members. If you think your battery needs replacing, you can call 0333 2000 999 for The RAC Battery Fitting Service.Īlternatively, you can visit our car battery section to find out which product you need.
You will, however, need access to jump cables and another vehicle. If you are in a hurry and need to get moving fast, you can attempt to jump start your car.
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