This is why experienced drivers have offered several helpful tips for addressing this issue:
Preparing the Battery for Cold Weather
The battery is one of the most vulnerable components in cold weather. If the car has been left out in the cold all night, it is advisable to turn on the headlights or radio for a few seconds before attempting to start the engine. This can help "wake it up." If you have an old or nearly depleted battery, it's best to bring it indoors to a warm place overnight.
Additionally, consider charging the battery in advance, especially if cold temperatures are expected. For long trips out of town, ensure that the battery is fully charged. If it is completely drained, you can try jump-starting the car using another vehicle's jumper cables or a portable jump starter.
Starting the Engine in Cold Weather
Before starting the engine, turn off all electrical devices in the car to reduce the load on the battery. If the engine doesn’t start immediately, avoid cranking the starter continuously to prevent overloading the system.
Wait about 10 seconds and then try again. If your car has a manual transmission, press the clutch to disconnect the engine from the transmission. This will also prevent the starter from turning the crankshaft, which may be stiff due to thick cold oil.
Oil and Spark Plugs
In winter, it is recommended to use synthetic oil, as it thickens less than conventional oil at low temperatures. Additionally, make sure your vehicle is equipped with high-quality spark plugs, as they will help ensure efficient ignition of the fuel-air mixture.
Warming Up the Engine
It is also important in winter to let the engine and transmission warm up for at least 3–5 minutes. After this, you can start driving, but avoid rapid acceleration and braking during the first few kilometers to allow the engine and transmission to fully adapt to the cold.
As a reminder, every Ukrainian with a car will be fined: prepare 340 hryvnias
Earlier, “hyser” reported, Ukrainians have 10 days to replace their driver's licenses: if you have a car – be prepared to pay a hefty fine
As reported by “hyser”, how to warm up a car in freezing weather: the engine will thank you and save money on repairs