How To

How to Keep a Car Running During a Deep Freeze

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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A deep freeze can wreak havoc on your car. Harsh conditions shorten battery life, put strain on the engine and are dangerous to drive in if you haven't taken the proper precautions. Ensure that your car keeps running and you stay safe during a deep freeze.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Oil
  • Antifreeze
  • Emergency pack
  • Wiper fluid
  1. Step 1

    Check the tire treads before the freeze hits. Make sure there is adequate tread or replace the tires with snow tires. Check the air pressure during a freeze and make sure that they are adequately filled. Since tire pressure lowers in cold weather, drive the car around for a while before checking the air pressure to make sure you get an adequate reading. You can put sandbags in the trunk for added rear wheel traction.

  2. Step 2

    Keep the gas tank filled at least halfway throughout the freeze. The fuller it is the better. Having a full gas tank helps the car start faster in cold weather and prevents condensation.

  3. Step 3

    Inspect the windshield wipers for cracks and other damage. Visibility is an absolute must in snowy and icy weather. It won't matter how well the engine runs if you can't see the road. It is a good idea to use a de-icing wiper fluid.

  4. Step 4

    Check the oil and antifreeze levels before and during a deep freeze. Keep extra antifreeze and oil in the trunk of the car. Make sure the battery is fully charged and the battery terminals are clean.

  5. Step 5

    Warm up the car before you drive. If the engine isn't warmed up, oil isn't going to flow through the engine like it should. Not warming up your car before driving can severely damage an engine during a deep freeze. Keep an emergency pack in the car in case you have unexpected car troubles on the road.

Tips & Warnings
  • Keep an emergency pack in your car. At the least, this should include flares, blankets, first aid supplies, water and food.
  • Keep an ice scraper within easy reach.

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