As a car gets older, it may become more susceptible to conditions that wear it down. Winter presents a number of factors that can deteriorate a vehicle that doesn't have proper maintenance, but there are ways you can preserve your older ride from adverse conditions. If you're not ready to write a favorite vehicle off as a junk car, here are a few problems to watch out for during the cold months.

How Can Cold Weather Deteriorate Cars?

1. Thicker Oil

The oil in your car is formulated to have a specific viscosity to optimize its functions. In the winter, car oil becomes thicker, which can cause issues with the engine’s oil pump as it works harder to circulate the cold oil and lubricate engine parts. To combat this issue, switch to an oil with a lower winter viscosity, indicated by the number next to the "W" on the bottle. This oil won’t get as thick in the cold and will put less strain on your engine. If your vehicle has sat for long periods or is a restored junk car, schedule an oil change, as the old oil will likely have grown thick from both cold temperatures and lack of use.

2. Deflated Tires 

As the air outside chills, the air inside your tires will also get colder. Cold air contracts and occupies a smaller space, so the tires will have less pressure and may begin to go flat. Driving on flat tires can cause dangerous wear on the tire treads, so in the winter, check your tire pressure more often. If the tire pressure is too low, the rims can touch the ground while you drive, damaging the wheels and undercarriage.

3. Corrosion

While snow isn't as common in North Carolina as it is further north, most drivers have still encountered salt on the roads. Salt lowers the melting point of ice, making it more difficult for roads to ice over. When you drive around on salted roads, however, this mineral can corrode exposed metal on your vehicle. The best way to combat this is to wash your car regularly during the winter to remove the salt.

If you have an old vehicle that has seen too much wear and tear, come to T&S Automotive. For 14 years, this vehicle recycling company has served residents of Thomasville, NC, with all types of used car parts. Their team will purchase any junk car, even those ten or more years old, with or without a title. They also purchase aluminum wheels, batteries, and catalytic converters ( with proper paper work and ID ). Call (336) 882-7989 to speak with a team member, or visit their website to learn more about their services.