Living in Titusville, FL, we may not deal with snow and freezing temperatures, but winter can still take a toll on your car. Cooler weather, higher humidity, and seasonal changes can lead to problems if you’re not prepared. At Premier Auto Care, we want to help you keep your car running smoothly, no matter the season. Here are 10 common winter car problems and how to prevent them. 

1. Battery Trouble 

Winter weather can strain your car battery. Even in Florida, cooler mornings can cause your battery’s power to drop. If your battery is already weak, it might not have enough juice to start your car. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Have your battery tested before winter starts. 
• Clean the battery terminals to ensure a strong connection. 
• Replace an old or weak battery to avoid surprises. 

2. Tire Pressure Drops 

Cooler temperatures cause tire pressure to drop. Low tire pressure can lead to poor gas mileage, uneven tire wear, and even blowouts. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Check your tire pressure regularly, especially on cooler mornings. 
• Use the recommended pressure listed in your car’s manual or on the door sticker. 
• Consider using a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) for added peace of mind. 

3. Foggy Windows 

Florida’s high humidity and cooler mornings can cause your windows to fog up, making it hard to see while driving. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Use your car’s defrost setting to clear windows quickly. 
• Keep a clean microfiber cloth in your car for wiping down windows. 
• Check your cabin air filter; a dirty one can make fogging worse. 

4. Worn Windshield Wipers 

Winter rains in Titusville can make driving tricky. Worn or damaged wiper blades won’t clear your windshield effectively, reducing visibility. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Inspect your wiper blades for cracks or wear. 
• Replace them if they leave streaks or don’t clear water properly. 
• Use windshield washer fluid rated for winter use. 

5. Coolant System Issues 

Your car’s coolant (or antifreeze) prevents the engine from overheating or freezing. In Florida, overheating is a bigger concern, even in winter. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Check your coolant level and top it off if needed. 
• Inspect your radiator and hoses for leaks or damage. 
• Flush and refill your coolant system every few years, as recommended by your car’s manufacturer. 

6. Brake Problems 

Moisture from rain and humidity can affect your brakes. Over time, brake pads and rotors may wear down, making it harder to stop your car. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Have your brakes inspected regularly, especially if you hear squeaking or grinding. 
• Replace brake pads and rotors as needed. 
• Avoid hard braking, which can cause extra wear on your brakes.

7. Engine Trouble 

Cooler weather can cause engine oil to thicken, making it harder for your engine to run smoothly. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Use the right type of oil for your car and climate. Check your owner’s manual for recommendations.
• Stick to a regular oil change schedule. 
• Listen for unusual engine noises and have them checked by a professional. 

8. Heater and Defroster Problems 

You might not use your car heater often in Florida, but it’s essential for clearing foggy windows and staying warm on chilly mornings. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Test your heater and defroster before you need them. 
• Check for leaks in the heater core or low coolant levels. 
• Have your HVAC system inspected during your next service visit. 

9. Corrosion from Road Salt 

If you travel north during the winter, salt from roads and the sea spray can cause rust on your car from us living so close to the lagoon.

How to Prevent It: 

• Wash your car regularly, paying attention to the undercarriage. 
• Apply a wax coating to protect your paint. 
• Consider rust-proofing treatments if you often drive in salty conditions. 

10. Dead Key Fob Batteries 

Cooler temperatures can shorten the life of your key fob battery, leaving you stranded if it dies. 

How to Prevent It: 

• Replace your key fob battery at the first sign of weakness (e.g., reduced range). 
• Keep a spare battery in your glove box. 
• Know how to use your car’s manual key or emergency start function. 

Stay Safe and Prepared This Winter 

Even in Titusville, FL, winter can bring unique challenges for your car. By staying proactive and addressing these common issues, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly all season long. 

At Premier Auto Care, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance needs. From battery tests to brake inspections, we’ve got you covered. Schedule a winter vehicle checkup today and drive with confidence!