Does Your Car’s Heater Affect Fuel Efficiency? What Gloucester County, NJ Drivers Need to Know

Temperatures are dropping, especially during the evening commute home. As a Gloucester County driver, you may find yourself relying heavily on the car heater to stay warm. But as much as you want to use the heater, you may also be concerned that your heater is affecting fuel efficiency. Today, we’re going to bust this myth that the heater alone impacts your gas consumption by explaining how the heater system works. Let’s get started.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • The heater in most gas-powered cars uses recycled engine heat and doesn’t require additional fuel, unlike the air conditioner which uses a separate compressor.
  • Modern engines only need about 15–30 seconds to warm up, so idling for extended periods isn’t necessary and wastes fuel.
  • Fuel efficiency can be indirectly impacted in winter due to idling, use of heated seats, and general engine inefficiency in cold weather.
  • Minimize fuel use by avoiding prolonged idling, reducing reliance on heated accessories, maintaining tire pressure, and planning trips to reduce cold starts.

 

How Does You Car’s Heater Work?

To understand if your car heater affects fuel efficiency, it helps to know how the system works. Unlike air conditioning, which relies on a separate compressor powered by the engine, the heating system takes advantage of your car’s cooling system. You know already that the engine uses combustion, and that generates heat. Obviously, this is a different story with electric vehicles, which have a separate system.

 

As the engine runs, coolant moves to absorb the heat. That heated coolant is then circulated around a small radiator known as the “heater core”. Fans then blow the air through the heater core into the cabin where you sit.

So, technically, your heater runs on recycled engine heat, and that requires no additional gas consumption.

 

Let’s also tackle some myths here while we’re at it. Some misconceptions have driven the idea that using the heater will affect fuel economy, which is why it’s important to clairfy. First, there’s the myth that the vehicle needs to warm up about 10-15 minutes before driving in the winter. This isn’t true. Maybe in the past it was, due to the conventional oil used in far less advanced engines. However, modern engines don’t need extensive warm-up time. 15-30 seconds is enough to circulate the oil through the engine, and within a couple of minutes, your car will be ready for moderate driving.

 

Next, defrosters and heater do not work best on full blast right away. Again, the heater system pulls excess heat from the engine bay. This means that your defrosters won’t be effective until the engine itself heats up. Start with a low heat then gradually increase the temperature to use the heating system more efficiently.

 

Does the Heater Affect Fuel Efficiency?

As you now know, using your heater by itself doesn’t increase fuel consumption. However, there are indirect ways your fuel efficiency may be impacted while the heater is turned on. These factors include:

 

Idling to Warm Up Your Car

In winter, many drivers idle their cars to warm up the engine and interior before driving. While this is convenient, idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle, which lowers fuel efficiency. Instead, consider letting the car warm up for just a minute or two before driving at a moderate speed to warm the engine more efficiently.

 

Heated Seats and Accessories

Many modern vehicles have heated seats, steering wheels, and other heating features that run on electricity. Although the energy demands are minor, they do put some strain on the car’s alternator, which can result in a slight increase in fuel consumption to maintain power.

 

Driving in Cold Weather

Colder temperatures generally reduce fuel efficiency because engines run less efficiently in low temperatures. Cold weather causes engine oil to thicken, making it harder for the engine to move. Tire pressure can also drop in the cold, creating more road friction and reducing fuel efficiency. So while the heater isn’t directly consuming fuel, other winter-related issues can contribute to increased fuel consumption.

 

Tips for Improving Fuel Efficiency in Winter

Winter driving through Gloucester County, NJ and the back roads can be taxing on your vehicle. Having the heater going isn’t going to burn through gas, but there are some things you can do to improve fuel efficiency so you get more for your gas money. Here are several strategies you can use to maximize fuel efficiency:

 

1. Avoid Extended Idling

Instead of warming up your car for long periods, start driving gently after a minute or two. This helps warm up the engine and cabin faster while minimizing fuel waste.

 

2. Use Heated Features Sparingly

While heated seats and steering wheels provide comfort, use them only as needed to save on energy. Turn them off once you’re warm enough to reduce the alternator’s load and minimize fuel usage.

 

3. Keep Up with Engine Maintenance

Cold weather can put extra strain on your engine, so make sure it’s in optimal condition by keeping up with routine maintenance. Replacing the oil, checking the battery, and inspecting the fuel system can all help improve fuel efficiency in winter.

 

4. Monitor Tire Pressure

Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop, increasing friction and lowering fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly in winter, and make sure they’re inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended level.

 

5. Plan Your Trips

Consolidating errands or trips helps reduce the amount of cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient than a warmed-up engine. By driving less often and running errands all at once, you reduce fuel consumption overall.

 

6. Keep Windows and Mirrors Clear

Driving with clear windows and mirrors helps you avoid excessive use of defrosters, which can also consume energy. De-icing sprays and a good ice scraper are handy tools to quickly clear windows before you start driving.

 

Need a Collision Repair Shop in Gloucester County, NJ This Winter?

Using your car’s heater in winter doesn’t have a direct impact on fuel consumption, but winter driving habits like extended idling, reliance on heated accessories, and cold weather conditions do. By using these tips to drive more efficiently, you can improve fuel economy and keep your vehicle running smoothly all winter long.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we may not work on everyday maintenance and repairs, but we do know how to get your car back on the road after a collision in Gloucester County, NJ. Our skilled team can restore your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition, meaning your heating system will also be as good as it ever was.

 

Stay warm, drive smart, and let Elmer’s Auto Body handle any winter-related repairs you may need. Contact one of our three South Jersey locations for professional collision repair services today.

How Winter Weather Impacts Vehicle Alignment and Safety in New Jersey

The temperature will hopefully be dropping soon, and when that happens, so too does winter weather. Winter weather can negatively affect your vehicle’s alignment, which in turn impacts your ability to drive safely. From icy roads to deep potholes, winter introduces risks that drivers may not realize impact their vehicle’s stability, handling, and even tire wear. Today, we’re going to discuss how winter weather affects alignment, why it matters for safety, and when to get a winter alignment check.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Winter conditions in New Jersey, including icy roads and potholes, can throw off your vehicle’s alignment, impacting handling and safety.
  • Potholes, icy roads, and snow or ice build-up under the vehicle all contribute to misalignment, which affects stability and increases wear on your tires.
  • Misalignment leads to reduced control, increased stopping distance, and uneven tire wear, all of which can be particularly dangerous on slippery winter roads.
  • Warning signs include your vehicle pulling to one side, a vibrating or unsteady steering wheel, uneven tire wear, squealing tires, or the steering wheel not returning to center.
  • Consider getting an alignment check after hitting a pothole, before heavy snowfall, when you notice misalignment signs, or as part of routine winter maintenance.

 

How Winter Weather Affects Wheel Alignment

Cold weather brings with it many things that you can look forward to, until you consider the roadways. Here are some things caused by winter weather than contributes to wheel misalignment:

 

Potholes and Cracks in the Road

New Jersey roads are notorious for their potholes, particularly the ones that get wider and deeper during the winter months. When snow and ice melt, they seep into cracks in the asphalt, which then refreeze and expand. This cycle causes potholes, which are hazardous for alignment. Hitting even a small pothole can jar your vehicle’s suspension system, leading to alignment issues.

 

Icy, Slippery Conditions

Freezing rain, snow, and ice make for poor driving conditions. Pair that with oil and other substances on the road, and you may find yourself in a sliding vehicle. When a vehicle slides or skids, it puts extra pressure on the suspension system and tires, which may lead to misalignment. This is especially true if you’re driving on untreated or poorly maintained roads in snowy weather.

 

Snow and Ice Build-Up

Snow, ice, and road salt can build up on the underside of your vehicle, adding uneven weight and pressure on your suspension. Over time, this can pull your alignment out of balance, even if the effect isn’t immediately noticeable. Additionally, heavy snow buildup on one side of the vehicle can also impact alignment and wear down your tires unevenly.

 

How Misalignment Affects Vehicle Safety

Driving with misaligned wheels can make your car’s performance poor. When your car isn’t functioning properly, there is a greater safety risk.  Here are some of the ways poor wheel alignment will impact your driving:

 

Reduced Control and Stability

Proper alignment ensures that your tires are straight and respond predictably to your steering. When misaligned, your vehicle may pull to one side, forcing you to continuously correct the steering. This can be dangerous, especially in winter conditions where sudden steering adjustments may lead to skids or loss of control.

 

Increased Stopping Distance

Misalignment affects the way your tires make contact with the road, which can increase your stopping distance. In winter, stopping quickly is crucial, particularly on icy or snow-covered roads. When alignment is off, it takes longer for your vehicle to come to a complete stop, increasing the risk of collisions.

 

Uneven Tire Wear

Misalignment causes uneven tire wear, reducing the life of your tires and making them less effective on slippery roads. Bald or unevenly worn tires struggle to grip the road, making them particularly dangerous in winter weather when traction is already reduced.

 

Signs Your Vehicle’s Alignment Needs Attention

It’s easy to overlook signs of misalignment, but it’s essential to check for them regularly, especially in winter. Here are some indicators that you may need an alignment check:

 

  • Your vehicle pulls to one side while driving
  • The steering wheel vibrates or feels unsteady
  • Uneven tire wear is visible
  • You notice squealing tires, even on dry pavement
  • The steering wheel does not return to center easily after turning

 

When to Get an Alignment Check

Winter is the ideal time for an alignment check, as your vehicle is more vulnerable to alignment issues. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we offer comprehensive alignment inspections to ensure your car is prepared for winter roads. Here’s when you should consider visiting us for an alignment service:

 

  • After Hitting a Pothole: Any time you hit a large pothole, it’s wise to have your alignment checked.
  • Before Heavy Snowfall: If you anticipate driving in heavy snow, an alignment check can enhance handling and safety.
  • After Noticing Alignment Issues: If you experience any of the warning signs listed above, bring your vehicle in for an inspection.
  • Routine Winter Maintenance: Including an alignment check in your winter maintenance routine is a good way to prevent safety issues before they arise.

 

Contact a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey Today

Winter alignment checks can be essential for driving safely in New Jersey’s winter weather. By addressing alignment issues early, you reduce the risk of unexpected repairs and make sure your vehicle handles optimally on icy roads. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re here to help you stay safe through every season. Although we mainly focus on collision repair center, we do aim to educate. If you ever end up in collision, give one of our three South Jersey locations a call today.

Salt, Sand, and Snow: How Winter Road Conditions Cause Rust and What You Can Do to Prevent It

In New Jersey, there is always a chance of snow and ice. With all the traffic, road conditions can go from perfect to hazardous, even when there isn’t a lot of snow on the ground. That is why so many municipalities in South Jersey spread salt and sand for traction. While this keeps drivers safer, it introduces another problem: rust. Salt, combined with moisture from snow and rain, accelerates corrosion on vehicles, potentially leading to costly repairs if left unchecked. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand how winter road conditions can damage your vehicle over time. Here’s an in-depth look at how rust forms during winter and what you can do to prevent it.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Winter road salt mixes with moisture and oxygen, causing rust, especially on the undercarriage and wheel wells.
  • Washing your car, particularly underneath, every two weeks prevents salt buildup and corrosion.
  • Wax or rust-preventive sprays add a protective barrier against salt and moisture, reducing rust risk.
  • Chips and scratches expose metal, leading to rust. Repair them to prevent corrosion.
  • Minor rust can be sanded and painted; severe rust may need professional repair to ensure safety.

 

Understanding How Winter Conditions Cause Rust

Road salt, usually made from sodium chloride, is highly effective at lowering the freezing point of water and melting ice, making roads safer. However, when salt mixes with water and oxygen on your car’s metal surfaces, it accelerates rust formation. Rust, or oxidation, occurs when iron reacts with oxygen and moisture. Salt speeds up this process, creating ideal conditions for rust to spread quickly.

 

While newer vehicles often come with corrosion-resistant coatings, salt can still penetrate vulnerable areas like the undercarriage, wheel wells, and exhaust system. Winter sand can also contribute to paint chipping and surface abrasions, exposing metal and creating starting points for rust. The combination of salt, moisture, and sand particles makes winter a challenging season for keeping your vehicle rust-free.

 

Steps to Prevent Rust During Winter

You can fight corrosion before, during, and after winter. The important things, however, happen during the winter months, when the most damage can occur. Here are some tips to help you keep rust off your vehicle:

 

Wash Your Vehicle Regularly

One of the best ways to prevent rust is to wash your car frequently, especially the undercarriage where salt tends to accumulate. Aim to wash your vehicle every two weeks during the winter, or more often if you’re frequently driving on salted roads. Remember to wash your car after a snowfall, particularly after temperatures warm up, as this is when salt becomes most active and corrosive.

 

Apply a Protective Wax or Sealant

Applying a wax or sealant before winter begins can add an extra layer of protection to your car’s paint, reducing the direct exposure of metal to salt and moisture. Many types of car wax and sealants are designed to last through harsh winter conditions, providing a buffer between your vehicle’s paint and corrosive elements.

 

Use Rust-Preventive Sprays

Rust-preventive sprays, often applied to the undercarriage, are specifically formulated to repel moisture and prevent salt from causing rust. These sprays are available at auto shops and are particularly useful for cars frequently exposed to winter road salt. A rust-proofing spray can be applied by a professional or as a DIY project if you have the right tools. It’s ideal to apply the spray before winter and touch it up as needed throughout the season.

 

Repair Paint Chips and Scratches

Small chips and scratches in your paint may seem minor, but they expose your car’s metal to salt and moisture, allowing rust to form easily. Regularly inspect your vehicle for chips and scratches, especially around the wheel wells and door edges where road debris often hits. You can use touch-up paint to seal these spots and prevent rust from starting. If you find deeper scratches, consider having them professionally repaired before winter.

 

Park Indoors When Possible

Parking indoors reduces your car’s exposure to salt and moisture, especially during harsh winter conditions. Garages and covered areas keep snow and ice from accumulating on your vehicle, which can prevent repeated cycles of freezing and thawing that contribute to rust formation. If parking inside isn’t an option, using a car cover can provide some additional protection.

 

How Can Rust Be Repaired?

Rust repair varies by the severity of the damage, but for small surface rust, sanding, grinding, and applying a rust converter can stop corrosion and restore the appearance. Once the rust is removed, priming, painting, and sealing the area help protect it from future rust. For deeper rust that penetrates the metal, like rust holes on body panels, the corroded area often needs to be cut out and replaced with a patch panel. This ensures structural integrity and is typically finished with grinding, painting, and sealing to blend with the rest of the vehicle.

 

For rust that affects structural components, such as the frame, professional repair is crucial to ensure the vehicle’s safety. Severe rust damage on these areas might involve welding in new metal or using braces to reinforce weak spots. Following repairs, applying a rust inhibitor or undercoating to the undercarriage is a valuable step to protect against moisture and salt, particularly in winter-prone areas. Regular rust-proofing is a good preventive measure to maintain your vehicle’s condition over time.

 

Need a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey?

Winter driving is challenging, but you can reduce the risk of rust damage to your vehicle by staying proactive with these protective steps. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we understand the importance of maintaining your car in all seasons. If your vehicle has been affected by rust or needs collision repairs after a winter accident, our experienced team is ready to help. Contact us to schedule an appointment, and drive with confidence knowing your car is prepared for winter’s challenges.

Winter Collisions and Total Loss: What You Need to Know if Your Car is Deemed Non-Repairable

Winter driving means a chance for collisions that are made more severe due to snow, ice, and salt. Sometimes, even with the best precautions, a winter collision is unavoidable. For instance, you need to slam on your brakes because someone pulls out right in front of you and your car slides into them. In some cases, the damage is severe enough for the car to be deemed a “total loss,” meaning it’s considered non-repairable. For many drivers, this can be a stressful and confusing situation. Here’s what you need to know about total loss declarations, how they’re determined, and what your options are if your car is deemed non-repairable.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • A car is totaled when repair costs exceed 70-80% of its actual cash value (ACV), which is common with severe winter collision damage.
  • Insurers compare repair costs, ACV, and salvage value to decide if a vehicle is repairable or a total loss.
  • Common issues like frame and engine damage, extensive bodywork, and water intrusion from snow can make a car non-repairable.
  • Review the insurance settlement, decide whether to keep or surrender the vehicle, and consider gap insurance if you owe more than the ACV.

 

What Does Total Loss Mean?

A vehicle is considered a total loss when the cost to repair it exceeds a certain percentage of its actual cash value (ACV). This percentage, known as the total loss threshold, varies by insurance provider but typically falls between 70% and 80% of the vehicle’s ACV. If a car’s repair costs exceed this threshold, the insurance company may deem it more practical to declare the vehicle a total loss rather than pay for repairs.

 

During winter, the likelihood of a total loss increases due to the types of accidents that can happen on icy or snowy roads. Collisions that cause extensive damage to the frame, engine, or other critical components may lead to a total loss declaration. Additionally, the higher incidence of multi-car pileups in winter months can result in more severe damage, increasing the possibility of total loss determinations.

 

How Insurance Companies Determine Total Loss in Winter Collisions

There are various factors to determine when a car is repairable or non-repairable. The first thing the insurance company looks at is the vehicle’s Actual Cash Value (ACV). The ACV is the car’s market value right before the collision. This figure is based on the car’s make, model, age, mileage, and general condition. The ACV determines the financial baseline against which repair costs are compared.

 

The insurance company then compares the ACV to the cost of repairs. Repair shops and insurance adjusters estimate the cost of necessary repairs. If the cost is close to or exceeds the ACV threshold, the car is deemed a total loss.

 

Next, there’s the salvage value. This is the amount the car would be worth if sold for parts or scrap after being totaled. Salvage value also affects whether a vehicle is repairable since high salvage value could make it more cost-effective to replace rather than repair.

 

Common Winter Collision Damages That Can Lead to a Total Loss

Winter collisions in South Jersey often result in damages that are more extensive due to the environmental conditions of the season. Here are some damages that may justify a total loss declaration:

 

  • Frame and Structural Damage: Collisions on icy or snowy roads frequently impact the car’s frame. Structural damage is often difficult and costly to repair, and if the frame has bent or twisted, it may compromise vehicle safety.
  • Drivetrain and Engine Damage: Severe front-end collisions can damage the engine and drivetrain components, which are costly to repair or replace. If critical components are damaged in a winter crash, the repair costs can easily exceed the ACV.
  • Extensive Body Damage: Snow and ice can reduce visibility and increase the chances of rear-end collisions or side impacts. If the damage involves multiple panels or requires a full repaint, it could add significantly to repair costs, making a total loss more likely.
  • Flooding from Snow and Ice: Accumulated snow and ice may lead to water damage if it melts and seeps into the car’s interior or engine bay. If water damage is severe, it may be another reason for a total loss, as replacing electronics and upholstery can be prohibitively expensive.

 

What to Do If Your Car is Deemed a Total Loss

Let’s say you get into an accident this winter and your vehicle is deemed a total loss, what happens then? What can you do? Here are some steps you can take, depending on whether you decide to keep your car, salvage it, or something else:

 

  • Understand the Insurance Settlement: Your insurance provider will offer a settlement based on the ACV of your vehicle before the collision. This amount is meant to compensate you for your loss. Review this settlement carefully and compare it to local market values for similar vehicles to ensure it’s fair.
  • Keep or Surrender the Vehicle: In some cases, you may have the option to keep the totaled vehicle, which is called “retaining salvage.” However, this typically comes with certain restrictions, and the insurance payout may be reduced by the vehicle’s salvage value. If you choose to surrender it, the insurance company will take possession and handle its disposal.
  • Get a Replacement Vehicle: Use the insurance settlement to purchase a new vehicle. If you owe more on your loan than the ACV, consider gap insurance, which can help cover the difference in the event of a total loss.
  • Notify the DMV: In most states, you’ll need to submit documentation to the DMV to update the vehicle’s title and registration status. This process varies by state, so it’s best to check New Jersey’s DMV requirements if your vehicle is totaled.

 

Get Winter Collision Repair at Elmer’s Auto Body in South Jersey

If your vehicle has been involved in a winter collision, there is a chance that the damages lead to total loss. While the team at Elmer’s Auto Body can’t reverse a total loss declaration, we do aim to help drivers get back on the road as soon as possible. If your car can be repaired, we’ll do what we can. Our skilled technicians can restore your car’s safety and appearance with high-quality repairs, allowing you to get back on the road with confidence.

 

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a winter accident, let Elmer’s Auto Body handle the repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at one of our South Jersey locations.

Snowplows and Road Safety: Avoiding Collisions and Damage Near Plowed Areas

Driving in the winter comes with hazards, even in places like South Jersey, where you never know if you’re getting snow, rain, or nothing at all. However, the one overlooked risk isn’t the precipitation but the snowplows. These large, powerful machines keep our roads passable, but their size and function create unique dangers for drivers. Whether it’s navigating near an active snowplow or dealing with the aftermath of snow piles, understanding how to drive safely around plowed areas can prevent accidents and protect your vehicle. Today we’re going to introduce some tips, so you can keep your car dent-free this winter season.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Snowplows present unique hazards, including reduced visibility, flying debris, large blind spots, and wide blades that require extra space on the road.
  • Maintain at least a 200-foot distance behind snowplows, avoid passing them, and stay mindful of snow clouds that can obstruct your view.
  • Snow piles left by plows can cause slick spots and limit visibility. Avoid parking or driving too close to these piles to reduce skidding risks.
  • Snowplows and plowed areas can lead to windshield cracks, scratches, and dents. Elmer’s Auto Body offers repairs, paintwork, and ADAS recalibration for these winter-related damages.

 

Why Snowplows Can Pose Hazards to South Jersey Drivers

Snowplows are essential machinery when the snow falls heavily. While most snowplows operate during the hours most people are at home, there are instances where you may encounter them while driving. You may not think these machines a hazard, but snowplows are equipped with large, heavy blades and often carry sand or salt to improve road traction. Additionally, their limited visibility, low maneuverability, and slow speed can lead to unexpected hazards.

 

Some common risks posed by snowplows include:

 

  • Reduced Visibility: Snowplows often create clouds of snow, reducing visibility for both the plow driver and nearby vehicles.
  • Flying Debris: Snow, ice, and salt can fly from the plow’s blade, potentially damaging cars and windshields.
  • Large Blind Spots: Drivers of these large machines often can’t see vehicles directly behind or beside them.
  • Wide Blades: Snowplow blades can extend several feet beyond the truck’s width, making it easy to underestimate their space requirements.

 

Tips for Avoiding Collisions with Snowplows While Driving

Collisions with snowplows are rare but not impossible. As such, knowing how to navigate around these large obstacles while you drive is paramount. Here are some tips to ensure you don’t get into an accident with a snowplow in South Jersey:

 

  • Keep a Safe Distance: Snowplows require extra space to operate safely. Stay at least 200 feet behind a snowplow and avoid tailgating, as the snowplow might make sudden stops or adjustments to avoid obstacles. If you’re too close, you risk windshield damage from flying snow or debris.
  • Avoid Passing: Snowplows operate at slower speeds, which can be frustrating, but passing one can be extremely dangerous. Snowplows may suddenly shift lanes, and the snow, slush, and salt they push to the side can create slippery spots that are tough to navigate.
  • Be Mindful of Snow Clouds: The snow cloud created by plows significantly reduces visibility. If you’re approaching a plow from the rear, slow down and increase the distance to give yourself a clear view of the road ahead and time to react to changes.
  • Watch for Turning or Lane Shifts: Snowplows need space to turn and often travel at an angle to clear multiple lanes. If you see a plow preparing to shift, give it plenty of space to complete the maneuver.

 

The Hazards of Plowed Snow Piles in South Jersey

After a snowstorm, snowplows create snow piles along roadsides and in parking lots. These piles can present their own challenges to drivers, from reducing visibility at intersections to creating slick, icy patches around them. When possible, avoid parking near snow piles. Snow piles in parking lots are often difficult to see around, and they can also create slippery surfaces. Avoid parking too close to these areas to minimize the risk of skidding when exiting. Next, you want to drive slowly around snow piles. Snow piles can cause black ice to form on nearby pavement, so reduce your speed when driving near them.

 

Common Types of Snow-Plow Related Damage and How Elmer’s Auto Body Can Help

Snowplow-related incidents can lead to a variety of car damage. For example, flying debris in the snow can hit your windshield, causing cracks. Snow, salt, and debris from snowplows can also scratch or dent your vehicle’s exterior. The state-of-the-art paint and bodywork services at Elmer’s Auto Body will restore your car’s appearance and protect it from further rusting. Lastly, if you end up colliding with a snowplow or a pile of snow while driving, other damages may occur.

 

Bodywork and ADAS recalibration are part of what Elmer’s Auto Body does best. After calling your insurance company, call us. We’ll get you back on the road.

 

Drive Safe This Winter and Contact a Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey for Repairs

Winter driving around snowplows requires extra caution to protect yourself and your vehicle. By following safe driving practices, you can avoid unnecessary collisions or damage caused by plowed snow and debris. However, if winter roads lead to vehicle damage, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. With our experience, high-quality repair services, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we’ll get your vehicle safely back on the road.

 

Stay safe on the road, and reach out to one of our three South Jersey locations if you need expert winter repairs!

The Importance of Winter Tire Checks: Avoiding Skids and Collisions in Camden County, NJ’s Snowy Conditions

Winter driving in Camden County, NJ, comes with its own set of challenges, especially with icy roads, sudden snowfalls, and slushy conditions. As a driver, it’s up to you to make sure that your vehicle’s tires are in top condition. Having tires that are up for the task of driving wintry roads makes a huge difference between staying safe or facing hazardous skids and collisions. Winter tire checks help prepare your vehicle for the harsh conditions of New Jersey’s winter and provide peace of mind on slippery roads.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Regular winter tire inspections prepare your vehicle for icy and snowy conditions, reducing the risk of skids and collisions.
  • Worn tires lead to reduced traction, longer stopping distances, higher chances of blowouts, and compromised steering, all of which are more dangerous in winter.
  • Cold temperatures lower tire pressure, affecting handling on icy roads. Adjust tire pressure weekly to maintain optimal grip and wear.
  • Tires with at least 2/32 of an inch tread depth are safer on slippery surfaces, improving braking and cornering.
  • Winter tires are specifically designed to handle cold, icy conditions and can improve control and stopping power below 45°F.

 

Why Winter Tire Checks Matter

Cold weather significantly impacts tire performance, even before snow or ice appears. As temperatures drop, tire rubber stiffens, reducing traction and compromising your control over the vehicle. This is especially dangerous on slick roads where stability and grip are crucial. Winter tires, with their specialized rubber and tread patterns, maintain flexibility and grip better in cold temperatures, but even all-season tires need special attention in winter. Regular tire checks help avoid preventable skids, collisions, and related repair costs.

 

The Dangers of Driving in the Winter with Poor Tires

As mentioned previously, cold weather does a number on your tires. Snowy and icy conditions demand the most from tires, leading to rapid deterioration of the tread. When that happens, the risk of certain dangers increases:

 

Reduced Traction

When tread depth is low, tires lose the ability to grip. Water, snow, and slush can’t be easily channeled away from the tire’s surface. That increases the risk of hydroplaning or slipping on ice, which also raises the risk of swerving out of control. On Camden County’s busy roads, that’s a risk you don’t want to take!

 

Longer Stopping Distance

Poorly maintained or worn tires increase stopping distances, which is especially dangerous on slick, snowy roads. The lack of adequate tread depth means less rubber contacts the road, which makes it harder to stop quickly. This can lead to rear-end collisions or other accidents when unexpected stops are necessary.

 

Increased Chance of Blowouts

Cold temperatures cause the air inside tires to contract, often leading to underinflation. Underinflated tires are more prone to blowouts, particularly if they are already worn or damaged. A blowout on an icy road can be catastrophic, as it’s challenging to regain control under these conditions.

 

Poor Steering and Handling

Is your car feeling difficult to steer or less responsive? Check the tires. Worn or misaligned tires make it harder to control your vehicle, leading to increased incidences of skidding and sliding.

 

Increased Risk of Tire Damage

Winter roads are often riddled with potholes due to freezing and thawing cycles. Tires in poor condition are more vulnerable to damage from hitting potholes. That means it’s easier to get punctures, sidewall bulges, or even complete tire failure.

 

What to Inspect on Your Tires Before Driving This Winter

Now that you know the dangers of driving around with tires that are in poor condition, let’s discuss how to spot issues on your tires. Here are some key components to inspect:

 

  • Tire Pressure: Cold weather causes air to contract, leading to lower tire pressure. Low tire pressure reduces traction, affecting handling on icy roads. Checking tire pressure weekly and adjusting it to the recommended level maintains optimal grip and reduces wear.
  • Tread Depth: Worn tread reduces a tire’s ability to channel away snow, ice, and water, making skids more likely. A tread depth of 2/32 of an inch or less is unsafe for winter driving. Ensuring your tires have adequate tread depth improves braking and cornering performance on slippery surfaces.
  • Tire Type: Winter tires are specifically designed to handle cold, icy conditions. If you frequently drive in snowy areas, consider switching to winter tires for increased control and stopping power. They are made to grip better than all-season tires in temperatures below 45°F, which is common in New Jersey winters.
  • Rotation and Alignment: Regular tire rotation and alignment keep wear even across all tires, maximizing their contact with the road. Misaligned wheels can make it harder to control the vehicle, especially on icy roads, so ensure alignment is checked regularly.

 

Need a Collision Repair Center in Camden County, NJ This Winter?

Winter driving in and around Camden County, NJ can be challenging. Staying on top of your vehicle’s maintenance and ensuring you have good tires for the winter are two ways you can reduce the risk of a collision. That is why we at Elmer’s Auto Body offer these tips to keep you safe! If you do find yourself in an auto accident this winter, you can call one of our three South Jersey locations to get the repairs you need done.