Tips to Protect Your Car from the Cold in Winter
As winter approaches and temperatures drop, preparing your car for the cold is essential, especially if you’re flying from UK airports like Heathrow or Manchester. Whether for a holiday or business, leaving your car parked in cold weather can lead to challenges like car struggles to start when cold. Here are essential tips to keep your car protected and ensure it’s ready to go when you return.
Types of Parking Available with Parkos
Before diving into car protection tips, here are two convenient Parkos parking options available at UK airports:
- Park and Ride: Park your car at the lot, then hop on a shuttle to the terminal.
- Meet and Greet: Drive straight to the terminal, where a valet parks your car.
Tips to Prepare Your Car for Long, Cold Airport Parking
To avoid issues like car won’t start in cold, follow these tips for winter car care.
1. Choose Covered Parking When Possible
Whenever possible, choose a parking facility that offers covered parking options. Many Parkos locations offer this protection at major UK airports, helping shield your car from snow, ice, and cold wind.
2. Apply High-Quality Car Wax
A good wax job protects your car’s paint by creating a barrier against winter weather. Waxing before long-term parking in the cold will prevent snow and ice from sticking to your car, reducing paint damage and making it easier to clear when you return.
3. Use a Weatherproof Car Cover
If covered parking isn’t available, invest in a weatherproof car cover. This helps protect your car’s exterior from direct snow and ice contact, acting as a weather shield in both winter and summer.
4. Remove and Store Your Car Battery
Cold weather can impact battery performance. To ensure it works when you return, remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Use a battery tender to keep it charged—this will prevent the struggle of starting a car in cold weather.
5. Top Off All Fluids
Check and refill essential fluids, like coolant and windshield washer fluid, to minimize corrosion and prevent freezing. Adding a fuel stabilizer can keep fuel from solidifying, reducing the risk of car won’t start in cold situations due to fuel issues.
Starting Your Car After Long-Term Parking in Cold Weather
After you’ve taken steps to protect your car, follow these tips to ensure a smooth start when you return.
1. Clear Snow and Ice
Before starting, remove all snow and ice from windows, mirrors, lights, and the roof. This will improve visibility and prevent snow from obstructing your view while driving.
2. Check Tire Pressure
Cold weather often causes tire pressure to drop. Low tire pressure can affect safety and fuel efficiency, so check and adjust tire pressure as needed before driving.
FAQs
Will freezing ruin a car battery?
Yes, extreme cold can damage a car battery by causing the internal fluids to freeze and expand, reducing its charge-holding capacity. Keep your battery warm to avoid damage.
Is it possible to protect your car without a garage?
Absolutely. Using car covers and applying wax can help protect your car from the elements, even without a garage.
Conclusion
Protecting your car from cold weather doesn’t have to be difficult, but it does require a bit of preparation. Following these steps will keep your car safe during cold spells and ensure it’s ready to go when you need it. When parking at UK airports this winter, remember these tips to protect your car from the cold and avoid common issues like car struggles to start when cold. This can help prevent damage from long-term fuel storage.
