Winter driving in Newbury isn’t just about navigating snowy roads—it’s also about making sure your car can handle the cold. Freezing temperatures can drain your battery, thicken your fluids, and even cause tire pressure issues that put your safety at risk. At Angie’s Service Inc., we believe in staying ahead of these problems with expert diagnostics and maintenance. Want to know the five biggest winter car troubles and how to avoid them? Click below to keep your vehicle running strong all season long.
1. Battery Trouble
What Causes Battery Failure in Cold Weather?
A car battery operates through chemical reactions, but low temperatures slow these reactions down, making it harder for your battery to generate power. A weak or aging battery is more likely to fail when the weather gets cold.
Tips to Keep Your Battery Strong All Winter
- Test your battery before winter to check for signs of weakness
- Turn off electronics (heated seats, lights, radio) before starting your car
- Consider a battery warmer if your vehicle struggles in low temperatures
- Replace older batteries—if your battery is more than three years old, it may be time for a new one
Need a battery check or replacement? Visit us for professional car repair in Newbury, MA.
2. Tire Pressure Drops
Why Do Cold Temperatures Affect Your Tires?
For every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tires can lose 1-2 PSI of air pressure. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency, traction, and handling, making driving more dangerous.
What You Can Do to Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
- Check your tire pressure weekly and keep it at the recommended PSI
- Switch to winter or all-season tires for better grip in cold conditions
- Get a wheel alignment to improve handling and extend tire life
Schedule a tire check and alignment at Angie’s Service Inc. to keep your car safe on the road.
3. Thickened Fluids
How Cold Weather Affects Engine Fluids
Fluids like engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid can thicken in cold weather, making them less effective. This can lead to sluggish performance, overheating, or even damage to engine components.
Preventing Fluid-Related Issues
- Use winter-grade synthetic oil that flows better in low temperatures
- Check and flush coolant to prevent freezing and overheating
- Top off all essential fluids, including transmission and brake fluid
- Use winter windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing
Book an oil change and fluid check at our shop for expert winter car care in Newbury, MA.
4. Heater and Defroster Issues
Why Your Heating System May Stop Working in Winter
A failing heater or defroster can make winter driving uncomfortable and unsafe. Common culprits include:
- A faulty blower motor, which prevents warm air from circulating
- A clogged heater core, leading to poor heating performance
- Leaking coolant, which affects both engine temperature and heating function
How to Keep Your Heater and Defroster Working Properly
- Test your heating system early in the season
- Check for coolant leaks and low coolant levels
- Replace dirty cabin air filters to improve airflow
If your heater isn’t working, bring your car to us for professional auto HVAC repair in Newbury.
5. Poor Visibility
Common Winter Visibility Problems
Cold weather can make it harder to keep your windshield clear due to worn-out wiper blades, frozen washer fluid, and ice buildup. This reduces visibility and increases driving risks.
Tips to Keep Your Windshield Clear
- Replace wiper blades with winter-resistant ones that handle cold temperatures
- Use winter washer fluid to prevent freezing and streaking
- Defrost your windshield properly—don’t pour hot water on it, as this can crack the glass
Stop by Angie’s Service Inc. for wiper replacements and windshield treatments.
Angie’s Service: Top-Tier Service, Advanced Diagnostics, and Honest Care
Winter can be tough on your car, but routine maintenance can help prevent unexpected breakdowns. As the most well-equipped shop in New England, Angie’s Service Inc. provides expert diagnostics, precision repairs, and warranty-backed services to keep your vehicle running at its best.
- Industry-Leading Diagnostics: We pinpoint problems before they turn into costly repairs using the most advanced tools available.
- Strong Customer Relationships: We treat every vehicle like it’s our own, and every customer like family
- Warranty-Backed Repairs: Every service comes with a 2-year/24,000-mile nationwide WORLDPAC warranty on parts and labor.
- Customer-Focused Care: We help you plan and budget for maintenance, so you can keep your car for 20+ years.
- Convenient Service Options: Loaner cars, pick-up/drop-off services, and a comfortable waiting area to make auto care hassle-free.
Is Your Car Winter-Ready? Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!
Winter roads in Newbury can be unforgiving, and the cold can take a toll on your car’s battery, tires, and fluids. A little preparation now can save you from costly breakdowns later. At Angie’s Service Inc., we specialize in winterizing vehicles to keep you safe and worry-free. Spots are filling up fast—don’t get left out in the cold! Call 978-462-8145 or stop by 101 Newburyport Turnpike, Newbury, MA 01951 to schedule your winter service today. We’re passionate about cars, and dedicated to people.
