HOUSTON – As freezing temperatures move closer to Houston, mechanics are warning drivers that even brief cold snaps can lead to costly vehicle damage.
Experts continue to urge people to stay off the roads if possible from Saturday afternoon through at least early next week. But for drivers who must travel, taking a few steps now could prevent breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Mechanics say winter weather quickly exposes weak points in vehicles.
Joshua Wade with Safe Auto Repair says coolant can lose its freeze protection over time, windshield washer fluid can freeze inside plastic reservoirs, tire pressure drops as temperatures fall, and batteries lose power much faster in the cold.
“These are the things we see the most after a freeze,” Wade said.
One of the most common and costly problems involves windshield washer fluid. Wade says many drivers don’t realize the fluid can freeze solid.
“That fluid that’s in there freezes and it cracks those reservoirs,” Wade said. “If you’re not going to put some sort of chemical in there to keep it from freezing, you want to run those windshield wipers so the fluid is out of there and it doesn’t crack the reservoir.”
Replacing a cracked washer reservoir can cost several hundred dollars due to labor and part placement.
Cold air also causes tire pressure to drop, which increases stopping distance and raises the risk of sliding, especially if the tread is worn.
Wade recommends checking the tire pressure label inside the driver’s door and inflating tires slightly higher before freezing temperatures arrive.
Batteries are another common failure point. Cold weather reduces battery power, and vehicles that already struggle to start are especially vulnerable.
“If it takes one Mississippi, two Mississippi to start, you probably want to get that battery checked,” Wade said.
Mechanics also recommend several other simple steps before a freeze:
- Keep your gas tank full
- Park on flat ground
- Avoid parking under large tree limbs
- Make sure coolant levels are at least at the minimum line
- Run washer fluid out if it is not freeze-protected
Wade says preparation matters because vehicles are one of the biggest investments many families make.
“For most of us, our cars are our second biggest financial investment, so we want to take care of that,” he said.
The bottom line: experts say the safest option is to avoid driving during freezing conditions whenever possible. If driving can’t be avoided, a few checks now can help prevent breakdowns, crashes, and expensive repairs later.