LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Many drivers have dealt with the situation before: running late, turning the key, and the car won\u2019t start.<\/p>\n
Mechanics say cold weather is often the final straw for vehicles that already have small hidden problems.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou want to get it warmed up because a cold engine can actually cause more damage then giving it a few minutes to warm up,\u201d Jack Maloney with Scott\u2019s Complete Car Care said.<\/p>\n
One of the biggest culprits is the battery. Cold temperatures drain the power, which means a weak battery now could be a dead one by the end of the week.<\/p>\n
\u201cBasically if it\u2019s slow to start right now then it gets real cold it wont start…at all,\u201d Maloney said.<\/p>\n
Tire pressure is another issue that drops as temperatures fall. Even if the warning light doesn\u2019t come on, mechanics say a quick walk around the car can prevent bigger problems.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you got one tire that doesn\u2019t look like the rest and has quite a bit on the side that\u2019s showing that\u2019s good sign that the tire is low,\u201d Maloney said.<\/p>\n
Mechanics recommend checking coolant levels and keeping emergency items in the car, like a blanket and ice scraper, in case drivers get stranded in freezing temperatures.<\/p>\n
\u201cEspecially your about you know low coolant that can leave you stranded for sure. Then with a low tire be at risk of blowing out a tire,\u201d Maloney said.<\/p>\n
Taking a few minutes to check the car now could save hours on the side of the road later.<\/p>\n
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