Local mechanics share tips on keeping car running during winter

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Central Illinois has experienced several days of rain, snow, and temperatures below freezing. This weather is difficult for people and cars to function in.

"Just like the cold affects you, it affects your car the same way, I mean everything's harder in the cold," said Lindsey Kreher, the owner of South Shores Auto Service. "This time of year when they spray the bridges with up sodium chloride, it's extra hard on your car."

Kreher said road salt breaks down brake lines and electrical components on the bottom of vehicles. The chemical can corrode different materials. To combat this, Kreher recommends finding a car wash that has an underbody sprayer so it can help wash away the salt. The mechanic said its also crucial to get regular cash washes when your vehicle is exposed to salt frequently. This will help prevent your car from rusting.

Kreher also said it's crucial to make sure you are warming up your car before driving when the weather is cold. Even warming the vehicle for 10 minutes will help get your fluids circulating and give the engine time to warm up.

"Cold is especially hard on batteries and it's hard on all the starting components, especially your starter" said Kreher. "The cold makes the oil thicker, which makes the engine harder to turnover, which puts extra strain on the starter. If the starter is already weak because it's old, then it tends to fail."

After the bad weather, Kreher says many auto shops have long wait times with vehicles needing some of these common repairs. South Shores Auto Service also has several vehicles with body damage from cars sliding or hitting pot holes.