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WINTER weather is here, forcing drivers to hit icy roads with freezing cars and slippery tires.
Luckily, a motors expert has shared some money-saving advice to help drivers take care of their vehicles during the frigid months.
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Automotive writer Ron Krauch has decades of experience with cars, starting as a kid in his dad’s mechanic shop.
Throughout his career, he’s worked with industry giants like Pontiac, Ford, and CarMax.
Now a contributor at CarsAndConvos.com, Krauch debunked some myths about how to handle your car in the wintertime in an exclusive conversation with The U.S. Sun.
It’s long been believed that during cold weather, drivers should turn on their cars and let them idle to warm up the engines.
READ MORE WINTER CAR ADVICE
However, Krauch said the warm-up period isn’t necessary at all.
The common practice could actually even hurt the vehicle.
“Modern cars, especially those with fuel injection systems, do not require long idle periods to warm up,” Krauch said.
“In fact, idling for too long wastes fuel and causes unnecessary wear on the engine.”
The expert advises drivers to hit the road quickly after starting their car, even if it means the inside of the car is chilly.
“It’s better to let the car idle for 30 seconds to a minute, then drive gently to warm it up,” Krauch said.
“Driving actually warms up the engine more efficiently than idling.”
The auto wizard said drivers are better off starting their car and hitting the road quickly, no matter how cold the inside of the vehicle may be.
Avoiding idling your car helps prevent wear on the engine by overuse – and it’ll help you save money on gas by running the car for less time.
Krauch shared that another way to save money on gas in the winter is by avoiding shelling out for premium fuel.
Crucial winter car checks
Automotive writer Ron Krauch shared some winter car advice with The U.S. Sun.
The car expert said that it’s important to check that the following car parts are up to standard ahead of cold weather:
- Headlights
- Brake lights
- Turn signals
- Fog lights
- Tire pressure
- Tire tread depth
- Windshield wipers
“Premium gasoline only benefits cars that are specifically designed to run on higher-octane fuel,” he explained.
Usually, luxury vehicles or high-performance cars are made to use expensive fuel.
“For most cars, using regular unleaded gasoline is perfectly fine, and using premium fuel won’t improve performance or fuel economy.
“It’s a waste of money unless your vehicle specifically requires it.”
Krauch also shared that drivers can save money on mechanic costs by using a $4 tire gauge from Walmart that fits in your glove box.
He said using the tool can help you monitor your wheels as cold temperatures usually make tire pressure drop.
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