4 overlooked car problems caused by winter driving

Winter officially lasts from December 21 to March 21. However, in most parts of Canada, winter conditions come as early as October and stay as late as April. That’s more than six months of extra wear and tear on your vehicle. Therefore, it’s essential to know how winter driving can impact your car to ensure it receives the maintenance it needs to run as it should. Here are four of the most overlooked problems caused by winter driving.

1. Wheel alignment. Potholes, ice and snow can cause your tires to become misaligned. This can lead to premature wear and tear. Not to mention, it’s downright dangerous. Misaligned tires pull to one side instead of rolling straight, which can cause you to run off the road. Moreover, misaligned tires make it more difficult to recover from turns and can lead to jerky steering. It’s a good idea to schedule a wheel alignment when you have your winter tires removed.

2. Suspension. The suspension is another part of your vehicle that can take a serious beating from winter driving. The suspension system is responsible for smoothing out your ride and keeping you in control of your car. Potholes are particularly damaging. Therefore, avoid driving over them as much as possible. However, it’s impossible to dodge every bump and dip in the road, especially in winter. Make sure you ask your mechanic to check your car’s suspension in the spring.

3. Engine belts and hoses. Cold temperatures can put undue stress on the various belts and hoses that make your vehicle function. For example, rubber components can harden and crack over the winter. Therefore, make sure to regularly check your hoses and belts for damage, especially in the spring, to ensure they don’t need to be replaced.

4. Air conditioning. After months of having warm air come out of your vents, it’s a good idea to make sure your vehicle’s air conditioning (AC) system is working as it should. For instance, the filter may need to be changed. Instead of waiting until it warms up, get your AC system inspected early in the spring to make sure it’ll work when you need it most.

Car maintenance experts

As you bid goodbye to winter, there are many things to keep in mind as you look forward to warmer days. Fortunately, the Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres team has over 46 years of experience helping drivers deal with car problems associated with Canadian winters. Contact us today to make an appointment for a spring tune-up.