A TikTok mechanic explains the importance of keeping the car running during winter
With the arrival of winter, the low temperatures become a challenge for starting our vehicles. However, there is a viral trick that is catching attention on TikTok. An expert mechanic has revealed the importance of keeping the car idling before embarking on a journey on those cold mornings. This advice not only helps protect the engine but also optimizes the efficiency of lubricants, ensuring better operation of all mechanical parts. Understanding why it’s beneficial to keep the car running can make a significant difference in automotive maintenance during the colder months.
During the winter months, low temperatures can significantly affect vehicle performance. A well-known mechanic on TikTok has shared his expertise on why letting the car idle can be crucial for the health of the engine and to avoid costly breakdowns. Taking a practical approach, he explains how proper engine start and preventive maintenance can ensure safe and efficient driving in cold climates.
The Challenges of Starting a Car in Cold Weather
Winter mornings can be tough for any driver when it comes to starting a car. The engine makes a considerable effort to start due to the low temperatures, and without proper care, this could lead to breakdowns. According to the mechanic, it is essential to activate the car’s electrical system by letting the car idle for a few moments before starting to drive.
Small Steps for Big Results
Before completely starting the engine, the mechanic recommends turning the key to activate the electrical system while some parts begin to warm up, which is especially important in diesel engines. Diesel engines need their heaters to function to raise the temperature of the fuel chamber. Turning the car on and off several times can be beneficial for this purpose.
How Idling Affects Engine Performance
Letting the car idle allows the oil and other lubricants to reach an optimal temperature, improving their circulation and facilitating the operation of the vehicle’s mechanical parts. This simple process extends the life of the engine and prevents problems related to the starter motor and the battery.
Techniques to Facilitate Starting
The mechanic suggests pressing the clutch all the way down before starting the engine, which allows the transmission to disengage and reduce the starter motor’s effort. Additionally, to avoid damaging parts from overexertion, it is key not to hold the key in the ignition for more than five seconds and wait at least twenty seconds between attempts.
Essential Maintenance Before Winter
Performing proper maintenance before the cold arrives is essential to prevent major breakdowns. Inspecting the battery, brakes, and fluid levels such as coolant and tires can ensure safer driving. It is also important to check the car lights, as in winter the hours of natural light are limited.
For more information on how to save on your vehicle maintenance, visit here. And if you are interested in exploring the challenges and benefits of electric cars compared to gasoline ones, you can read a detailed analysis here.
Importance of Keeping the Car Running in Winter
With the arrival of winter, it is crucial to understand the practices that can protect the health of our vehicle. An automotive expert shared a valuable tip on TikTok that has captured the attention of many drivers: keep the car running at idle before starting to drive. This advice is not only helpful but also essential to ensure optimal engine performance during cold days.
In times of low temperatures, engines have to work harder to start because the oil’s viscosity increases with the cold. By allowing the engine to idle for a few minutes, it helps both the oil and other essential lubricants circulate properly. This prepares the engine and other crucial parts for safe and effective operation, reducing the risk of breakdowns that could be costly.
Letting the engine idle allows diesel vehicles to adequately heat the fuel chamber before use, thus avoiding setbacks in starting. This simple procedure can prevent significant issues, such as difficulties with the starter motor or battery failures, both key elements for starting the car.
In practice, this measure positively affects the vehicle’s lifespan, reducing premature wear of its mechanical components. Additionally, it establishes a maintenance routine that, with proper inspection and regular care, ensures efficient and reliable performance, even in the most extreme winter conditions.
It is essential for drivers to consider this advice not just as a method to avoid technical problems but as part of a holistic approach to automotive care in winter. Adequate prevention and preparation during these critical months can make a significant difference in a vehicle’s lifespan and overall performance.
