Preparing Your Car for NJ’s Winter Roads: What to Do Before the First Snowfall

As winter approaches in New Jersey, the colder temperatures and unpredictable weather create unique challenges for drivers. You never truly know what you will encounter on the roadways, so it’s ideal to be prepared for whatever may come your way. Ice, snow, and road salt can impact your vehicle’s performance and safety, so taking proactive steps before the first snowfall can help prevent costly repairs and breakdowns later in the season. Here’s a guide on preparing your car for NJ’s winter roads so that you stay safe and avoid winter-related damage.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Check tire tread and pressure regularly, as cold temperatures can cause pressure to drop. Consider winter or high-quality all-season tires for better traction on snowy roads.
  • Cold weather strains car batteries, so test yours if it’s over three years old. Replace if it struggles to hold a charge, especially if your car is slow to start.
  • Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid and inspect wipers for damage. Consider winter wipers to better handle snow and ice buildup.
  • Top off engine oil, antifreeze, and other essential fluids, ensuring brakes are in good condition to handle longer stopping distances in icy conditions.
  • Keep essential supplies like an ice scraper, jumper cables, a flashlight, blanket, and snacks in your car for winter preparedness.

 

1. Check Your Tires and Tire Pressure

Winter driving requires tires with adequate tread and proper inflation to maintain traction on slick roads. Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, so start by checking the tread depth and pressure. If your tire treads are worn, consider switching to winter tires or at least ensuring your all-season tires are in excellent condition. Additionally, monitor tire pressure throughout the season, as lower temperatures can continue to reduce it.

 

Consider keeping a tire gauge in your glove compartment and check the tire pressure regularly, especially if you notice any changes in handling.

 

2. Inspect Your Car’s Battery

Cold weather strains car batteries, which can lead to sudden failure in frigid temperatures. Batteries over three years old are especially susceptible to winter breakdowns, so it’s wise to test your battery to see if it can hold a full charge. If you notice that your vehicle is slow to start or your battery terminals show corrosion, it’s time to consider replacing the battery.

 

3. Refill and Replace Windshield Wiper Fluid

Keep a spare bottle of windshield washer fluid in your trunk, especially for long winter drives, and make sure that fluid is rated for winter. Winter road grime can obscure your windshield, reducing visibility, so you are going to want a clean windshield. Also, check your windshield wipers for cracks or damage, and replace them if needed. Winter wipers are specifically designed to handle snow and ice buildup, so investing in a pair can be worthwhile for added safety.

 

4. Inspect and Fill Fluids

After replenishing the windshield wiper fluid in your car, you may also want to check the other fluids. Top them off or replace them before temperatures drop. This includes engine oil, antifreeze (coolant), and transmission and brake fluids.

 

For engine oil, keep in mind that thinner oil is generally better in the winter. Most vehicles these days take 0W or 5W (which are adequate for NJ’s weather), but if you are unsure, consult with a mechanic or your car’s owner manual.

 

You also want to double check your transmission and brake fluid, as cold temperatures can make these fluids thicker. Make sure the levels are correct to ensure proper performance.

 

5. Check the Brakes

Wintry conditions will test your reflexes and your brakes. In other words, be prepared for increased stopping distances by keeping your brakes in good condition. Listen for any squeaking or grinding sounds when braking, as these indicate that your brake pads or rotors need attention. It’s best to have a mechanic inspect your brakes and ensure they’re functioning properly before winter conditions set in.

 

6. Test the Heating and Defrosting Systems

In order to drive safely, you need to be able to see. That is why your car’s heating and defrosting systems are critical for comfort and visibility in the winter. Run your heater to ensure it’s functioning well, and check that the defroster effectively clears fog or frost from your windows. If your defrost system isn’t working properly, it’s better to address it early before winter weather sets in. For smokers or those driving through smoggy areas, consider cleaning the inside of the windows to reduce fog buildup and improve visibility.

 

7. Keep Emergency Supplies in Your Car

Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential items in case of a breakdown or unexpected delays in harsh weather. Recommended items for winter include:

 

  • Ice scraper and snow brush
  • Jumper cables
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Blanket and extra warm clothing
  • Non-perishable snacks and water
  • Basic first-aid kit

 

Having these supplies on hand can make all the difference if you’re stranded on a snowy road.

 

8. Consider Waxing and Undercoating

Protect your car’s paint and undercarriage from road salt and moisture, which can lead to corrosion. Wash your car regularly to remove salt buildup. Applying a coat of wax helps shield your car’s exterior, and undercoating can add an extra layer of protection underneath. Both will reduce the risk of rust and extend your vehicle’s lifespan through the winter months.

 

Looking for a Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey?

Winter is unpredictable, and so it make sense that the roadways will also be chaotic. Around the holidays, and even the months beyond, the cool temperatures and chance of precipitation increase the likelihood of getting into an accident or breaking down. Be sure to do some routine maintenance on your car. Be prepared for emergencies. Doing so will make such stressful events a little less hectic and help keep your vehicle in better condition.

 

If you do find yourself in need of collision repair this winter, contact Elmer’s Auto Body at one of our three South Jersey locations. We offer high-quality collision, hail, and dent repair.

How Black Ice Leads to Collisions and How a Collision Repair Shop Can Help Restore Safety

Winter driving in South Jersey is difficult, especially when there is a threat of black ice. Known for its invisible nature, black ice forms a thin, nearly transparent layer on the road, making it difficult for drivers to detect until it’s too late. Unlike snow or slush, black ice offers virtually no traction, which can lead to unexpected skidding, loss of control, and potentially serious collisions. Understanding black ice, knowing how to drive safely on it, and understanding how a collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body can help restore your vehicle’s safety after an accident can make a huge difference this winter.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Black ice forms a nearly invisible, slippery layer on roads in freezing conditions, making it difficult for drivers to see and avoid.
  • Black ice causes sudden loss of traction, leaving drivers with little time to react, often resulting in skids, braking issues, and chain-reaction accidents.
  • Drive slowly, avoid sudden movements, and use brakes sparingly to reduce the risks on black ice, especially in high-risk areas like bridges and shaded roads.
  • After a black ice collision, Elmer’s Auto Body provides comprehensive repairs, including frame restoration, alignment, and ADAS recalibration to keep your vehicle safe.
  • Elmer’s Auto Body uses OEM parts and certified technicians to ensure your car is restored to high safety standards, helping you get back on the road confidently.

 

What is Black Ice?

Black ice is a phenomenon that occurs when there is moisture on asphalt when the temperature dips below freezing. While it can form on any surface, black ice is most commonly found on bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and roads with less traffic, as these surfaces cool down faster.

 

The “black” in black ice comes from the way the ice blends seamlessly with asphalt, making it challenging to spot, especially in low light conditions. Drivers are often caught off guard, with little to no time to react, as they suddenly find themselves without traction.

 

How Black Ice Leads to Collisions

So how does black ice contribute to collisions? Here are some of the reasons:

 

  • Unexpected Loss of Traction: When your tires hit black ice, traction is instantly reduced, often causing the vehicle to slide without warning. Most drivers experience a sudden loss of control, and many instinctively react by braking, which worsens the slide and increases the risk of collisions.
  • Limited Time to React: Since black ice is nearly invisible, drivers rarely have time to adjust their speed or steering to compensate. Even small adjustments, like steering corrections or tapping the brakes, can cause a vehicle to fishtail or spin out.
  • Chain Reaction Collisions: On busy roads, black ice can create multi-vehicle accidents. When one driver loses control, nearby vehicles may also skid or swerve to avoid a collision, increasing the chance of a pile-up.
  • Impact on Braking and Turning: Since black ice eliminates traction, it becomes nearly impossible to brake effectively or execute turns safely. Even drivers accustomed to winter driving conditions may find it challenging to navigate on black ice.

 

Tips for Driving Safe on Black Ice

While there’s no way to guarantee safety on black ice, here are some tips that can help you reduce the risk of an accident:

 

  • Reduce Speed: Drive slower than usual in freezing conditions, even if the road appears clear. Lower speeds give you more time to respond to unseen hazards.
  • Avoid Sudden Movements: Sudden braking, accelerating, or steering changes can lead to a loss of control on black ice. Maintain a steady speed and avoid sharp turns.
  • Use Your Brakes Sparingly: If you hit black ice, avoid slamming on the brakes. Instead, keep your steering wheel straight and ease off the accelerator.
  • Stay Alert in High-Risk Areas: Be especially cautious on bridges, overpasses, and shaded sections of the road, as these are prime spots for black ice formation.

 

How a Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey Can Restore Your Vehicle After a Black Ice Incident

Accidents can occur, even when you’re being cautious. Black ice increases the risk exponentially because you can’t see it. You can only prepare for it. In the event you find yourself in an collision because of black ice, knowing where to take your vehicle can alleviate some of the stress. A professional collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body can play a crucial role in restoring your vehicle’s safety and performance.

 

Here are some ways a collision repair shop can help you get back on the road:

 

Thorough Damage Assessment

Black ice collisions can cause both visible and hidden damage to your vehicle’s structure and safety features. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we perform a detailed inspection to ensure all areas of damage are identified and repaired.

 

Structural Repairs

Collisions can compromise the structural integrity of your vehicle, especially after a slide or impact. Our technicians use advanced equipment to restore your car’s frame and body, ensuring it meets safety standards.

 

Alignment and Suspension Repair

Black ice collisions often damage the alignment and suspension. We use precision tools to restore alignment and ensure your car handles properly, reducing the risk of further accidents.

 

ADAS Calibration

Many newer vehicles are equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), like lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking. After a collision, these systems often need recalibration to function correctly, a service we provide to keep you safe on the road.

 

OEM Parts

At Elmer’s Auto Body, we prioritize your safety and the quality of repairs. That is why we don’t use aftermarket parts or cheap replacements. We also don’t truckle to insurance company demands. You get OEM parts direct from the manufacturer, as well as work done by technicians certified to work on the make and model of your vehicle.

 

Looking for a Collision Repair Center in South Jersey?

Black ice poses serious risks to South Jersey drivers, making it essential to drive cautiously and prepare for the unexpected. If winter roads lead to an accident, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. With our skilled technicians, advanced repair techniques, and commitment to restoring your vehicle’s safety and appearance, we’ll get you back on the road with confidence.

 

Call one of our three South Jersey locations for professional collision repair this winter season. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we’re committed to your safety and satisfaction—no matter the weather.

How to Spot Winter Collision Damage Before It Gets Worse: A Guide for Sewell, NJ Drivers

Winter in Sewell, NJ, brings beautiful scenery—and challenging driving conditions. Icy roads, heavy snowfall, and reduced visibility increase the risk of minor and major collisions. While some winter damage is obvious, like a dented bumper or cracked headlight, others are subtler and can worsen if ignored. Identifying and addressing winter collision damage early can help prevent safety issues and save on costly repairs. Here’s a guide to spotting winter collision damage before it becomes a bigger problem.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Ignoring minor damage can lead to serious issues, as winter conditions like salt and moisture accelerate rust and corrosion on scratches, dents, and exposed areas.
  • Winter roads often hide hazards that can dent or scrape your undercarriage. Check for leaks or rust.
  • Winter potholes and minor collisions can cause alignment issues and uneven tire wear.
  • Damaged or dim lights reduce visibility; ensure headlights and indicators are functional.
  • Grinding brakes, clunks, and rattles can indicate damage needing prompt repair.

 

Why You Must Address Collision Damage Quickly

Winter conditions can worsen damages left unattended, compromising the performance and safety of your vehicle. If you got into a collision during the warmer months, those issues can worsen dramatically as the temperature dips. Fixing minor dents, realigning wheels, and sealing paint scratches can prevent larger repairs later on. Regular inspections, especially after driving in icy or snow-packed areas, ensure that your vehicle remains in safe, reliable condition throughout the season.

 

Inspect the Exterior of Dents and Scratches

Minor dents, scratches, and chips seem harmless, as they are often considered superficial damage. Unfortunately, even a tiny scratch can lead to extensive damage. Winter conditions have a way of making such tiny damages worse, particularly when snow and ice is mixed with road brine. Road salt and moisture seep into exposed areas, speeding up rust and corrosion.

 

When doing a visual inspection of your vehicle after a collision, look for denter bumpers and panels; scratches in the paint; and chipped or cracked paint.

 

Look Underneath for Hidden Undercarriage Damage

Winter can be rough on a car’s undercarriage. Snow and ice-packed roads hide hazards like potholes and debris, which can cause undercarriage damage. Damages from a collision can worsen, too, when you hit ice or snow-covered debris. Look under your vehicle for any scrapes or dents, leaking fluids, or rust.

 

Leaking fluids are after oil, coolant, or transmission fluid, all of which are essential to the safety of your vehicle.

 

Examine Tires and Wheels for Damage

Winter potholes can knock your tires and wheels out of alignment, causing uneven tire wear, steering issues, and even suspension damage. You can tell that your wheels are misaligned with a couple of cues. First, is your car pulling to one side of the road while in motion? That may be a symptom of sustained wheel or suspension damage, which can occur during a fender bender, for example. You may also notice some tire wear that can cause alignment issues, especially if the uneven wear is due to slamming on the brakes and leaving a trail of burned rubber behind.

 

Test Headlights, Brake Lights, and Indicators

In winter, it’s common for lights to get damaged due to icy collisions or exposure to cold, wet conditions. Check your lights regularly by looking for cracks, fogging, or moisture inside the light housing. These problems can affect visibility and lead to electrical problems. If any lights are dim or not working, it’s essential to repair or replace them, especially in winter when visibility is crucial for safe driving.

 

Listen for Unusual Noises When Driving

After a collision, regardless of the season, you want to pay attention to any unusual noises. Listen for any grinding or squeaking from the brakes, which can signal damaged brake pads, rotors, or brake lines. Clunking noises from the suspension suggest potential damage to the shocks, struts, or suspension. Any whistling or rattling points to damaged seals, doors, or windows that were affected by an impact or temperature change.

 

How Can a Collision Repair Shop in Sewell, NJ Help?

A collision repair shop like Elmer’s Auto Body can provide several essential services to address and repair winter-related damage, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Collision repair shops are ideal for minor dent, scratch, and chipped paint repairs caused by accidents. Furthermore, a repair shop can inspect your car’s undercarriage for dents, scrapes, or damage to the frame and suspension. They can realign or repair components as needed to maintain your car’s structural integrity. You also get peace of mind knowing that a collision repair shop in Sewell, NJ like Elmer’s Auto Body has been around for years and has state-of-the-art facilities.

 

Contact a Sewell Collision Repair Center This Winter

Winter conditions can worsen any damage left unattended, potentially compromising your vehicle’s safety. If you recently got into a minor collision, there may be damages that you are unaware of, ones that will make driving this winter even harder. Do an inspection then look for a professional collision repair service.

 

Stay safe this season—contact Elmer’s Auto Body in Sewell, NJ, for professional repairs and keep your car ready for any winter challenge.

Debunking Winter Driving Myths: Facts NJ Drivers Need to Stay Safe

Whether it’s your first winter driving or your twentieth, taking to the roads when there’s ice and snow can be a harrowing experience. Plus, you have to deal with a lot of misinformation. Yes, there’s a wealth of knowledge out there about how to deal with wintry conditions, but not all of it is accurate. Many drivers follow winter driving tips that can actually increase risks instead of reducing them. To help you stay safe, the team at Elmer’s Auto Body has gotten together to debunk some of the most common winter driving myths. Let’s get started.

 

Myth 1: All Season Tires are Better Than Winter Tires

Many NJ drivers are under the assumption that “all-season” means that your tires can handle every season, regardless of the conditions. Unfortunately, all-season only means decent performance across the board, particularly in mild seasons. All-season tires don’t provide the same amount of grip and safety as winter tires.

 

Winter tires are specifically designed for temperatures below 45°F and offer superior traction on snow and ice. Their rubber compound stays flexible in the cold, providing better handling and shorter stopping distances. If you frequently drive in snowy or icy conditions, switching to winter tires can significantly enhance safety.

 

Myth 2: Four-Wheel Drive Makes You Invincible in Wintry Conditions

While four-wheel drive (4WD) can help you accelerate and maintain traction on snowy roads, it doesn’t make you immune to sliding or losing control. Many drivers with 4WD overestimate their vehicles’ capabilities and may end up taking unnecessary risks, believing that 4WD alone is enough.

 

The fact of the matter is that 4WD vehicles still slide. Regardless of the car you are driving, it’s crucial to drive slowly, avoid sharp turns, and remember that 4WD doesn’t make stopping any easier. Practicing safe braking and steering techniques is just as important.

 

Myth 3: You Don’t Need to Warm Up The Car Before Driving

Some believe that modern engines don’t need to warm up before driving in winter, but this isn’t entirely accurate. Cold weather can cause fluids to thicken and limit their ability to properly lubricate the engine and other parts. Warming up your car for a few minutes allows the engine oil and other fluids to circulate properly, reducing strain on the engine and ensuring smoother performance. While idling for 15-30 seconds is generally sufficient in modern cars, it’s helpful to wait a bit longer in freezing temperatures, especially if you plan to drive at higher speeds.

 

Myth 4: Lower Tire Pressure Improves Traction on Ice and Snow

There’s a common misconception that deflating tires will increase their grip on icy roads. However, this myth can actually lead to more problems than solutions. Lowering tire pressure reduces traction, increases tire wear, and affects your vehicle’s handling. Proper tire pressure is essential for maintaining traction and control. Always check your tire pressure regularly in winter, as cold temperatures cause pressure to drop naturally. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure, and keep your tires properly inflated to ensure safe winter driving.

 

Myth 5: ABS and Traction Control Reduce Skidding

ABS and traction control are designed to help you maintain control by preventing wheel lock-up and managing acceleration. However, these systems are not a substitute for safe driving practices. When roads are icy, drive slowly and maintain extra distance from other vehicles. Use ABS and traction control as tools to aid your control, but don’t rely on them entirely to avoid sliding. Such technologies are not foolproof, and things can go wrong.

 

Myth 6: Salted Roads Mean Safe Driving

Road salt is widely used in New Jersey to prevent ice buildup, and while it does help reduce slipperiness, it’s not a guarantee of safe driving. Salt lowers the freezing point of water, helping to melt ice on the roads, but its effectiveness decreases significantly in very low temperatures. Additionally, salt can corrode the metal parts of your vehicle’s undercarriage, leading to rust and potential structural damage. To protect your car, wash it regularly during winter to remove salt buildup, especially in the wheel wells and underbody.

 

Myth 7: Pouring Hot Water on a Vehicle Can Defrost It

Have you ever seen those reels or TikToks where someone gets the idea to pour hot water on the door handle or windshield of their car and something terrible happens? That’s the truth. Pouring hot water on a frozen windshield is dangerous because the rapid temperature shift can stress the glass, leading to cracks. Instead, use an ice scraper, start your defroster, and allow your car to warm up. De-icing spray or rubbing alcohol can also help melt ice safely without risking windshield damage.

 

Myth 8: You Don’t Need to Carry an Emergency Kit for Short Trips

Winter breakdowns and accidents are unpredictable, and having an emergency kit in your car is essential regardless of the distance you plan to travel. Include items like a blanket, flashlight, first-aid kit, ice scraper, jumper cables, and non-perishable snacks. You’ll be grateful for these supplies if you’re ever stuck in an unexpected situation on the road.

 

Myth 9: Bridges and Overpasses Are Not as Slippery as Roads

Many drivers believe that bridges and overpasses aren’t as susceptible to ice as regular roads, but these structures actually freeze faster and can be more hazardous. Why? Because bridges and overpasses have no ground beneath them to retain heat, so they freeze more quickly than other road surfaces. Always slow down and drive cautiously when crossing bridges and overpasses in winter, as these areas are prone to black ice, even when the rest of the road appears clear.

 

Looking for a Collision Repair Shop in South Jersey?

Knowing the facts about winter driving in New Jersey can help you stay safer on the road and avoid common mistakes. By avoiding these myths and practicing sound winter driving habits, you’re better equipped to handle whatever challenges come your way this season. And if a winter collision occurs while you are driving this winter, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. Protect yourself from winter’s hazards by driving smart, and contact Elmer’s Auto Body for professional collision repair when you need it.

Brined Roads: What Does It Mean For Your Car in New Jersey?

The winter months are a time when caution should take priority on the roads. Even when the roadways look safe, there may be black ice or slick spots that cause you to lose control of your vehicle. That is why New Jersey authorities aim to keep the roads free of such dangers. One common method used by state and local authorities is to pre-treat roads with brine. While this practice helps prevent ice formation and improves road safety, it can have unintended consequences for your vehicle. Understanding what road brine is, how it affects your car, and how to protect your vehicle is essential, especially during winter in New Jersey.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Road brine, a mix of salt and water, helps prevent ice formation on roads but can be corrosive to vehicles due to its high salt content.
  • Brine can corrode the undercarriage, brake lines, and exhaust system, leading to rust. It can also damage car paint, especially around wheel wells and lower panels.
  • To prevent brine damage, regularly wash your car (especially the undercarriage), apply wax for protection, inspect for rust, and consider rust-proofing treatments.
  • Brine may help reduce ice, but it can also make roads slick and worsen damage in a collision by corroding vehicle parts, increasing repair costs.
  • If your vehicle is damaged by brine or in an accident, Elmer’s Auto Body offers professional collision repair in South Jersey to keep your car in top shape for winter.

 

What is Road Brine?

Road brine is a mixture of salt and water used as a pre-treatment for roads before a snowstorm or a significant drop in temperature. The solution typically consists of around 23% salt, which helps to lower the freezing point of water on the roads. By applying brine in advance, the goal is to prevent snow and ice from bonding to the pavement, making it easier to plow the roads or for the ice to melt once traffic begins.

 

When driving, you may notice white lines that are thinner and fainter than paint. That is the brine on the road, left behind by the spreaders used by the roadway authorities.

Brined Roads: What Does It Mean For Your Car in New Jersey

What Does Brining Do?

Brining is meant to protect drivers. When brine is applied to roads, it forms a thin, protective layer that prevents ice and snow from freezing onto the pavement. This proactive approach allows plow trucks to clear snow more easily and ensures that roads are less slippery during the first hours of a storm. As a result, accidents due to icy conditions may be reduced, and emergency services can navigate roads more safely. However, while brining is effective for road safety, it can be harsh on vehicles over time.

 

How Do Brined Roads Affect a Motor Vehicle?

Unfortunately, the same brine that makes driving safer can also be corrosive to your car. The high salt content in brine can cling to your vehicle’s undercarriage, exhaust system, brake lines, and even metal surfaces, leading to rust and corrosion if not properly addressed. Continuous exposure to salt over the winter months can weaken key components of your car, including the frame, causing long-term damage.

 

Corrosion is particularly dangerous because it often starts out of sight, leaving many car owners unaware of the issue until serious problems arise.

 

Additionally, brine can damage the car’s paint. When it dries, the salty residue can stick to your car’s exterior, especially along the wheel wells and lower body panels. Over time, this buildup can lead to chipped paint, exposing bare metal to the elements and accelerating the rusting process.

 

What Can You Do to Protect Your Car from Brined Roads in New Jersey?

As you now know, brined roads enhance the safety of the roads, but they can also cause damage to your car, truck, or SUV. Fortunately, there are several preventive strategies you can use to minimize such damage, including:

 

  • Regular Washing: During winter months, regularly washing your car is essential. Focus on cleaning the undercarriage, wheel wells, and areas where brine residue accumulates. Look for car washes that offer undercarriage cleaning services to fully remove any salt buildup.
  • Wax Your Vehicle: Applying a fresh coat of wax before winter creates a protective barrier on your car’s paint, reducing the likelihood of salt damage.
  • Inspect Your Car Frequently: Check your vehicle for signs of rust, especially in areas that are prone to salt exposure. Early detection can prevent further damage.
  • Use a Rust-Proofing Treatment: Consider applying a rust-proofing product to the undercarriage and other vulnerable areas. These treatments can prevent salt and moisture from reaching metal surfaces.

 

Can Road Brine Make an Accident Worse?

Brine may help prevent icy roads, but it can also contribute to more severe collisions when accidents do occur. Salt residue makes roads slick, and while it is meant to dissolve ice, it can also cause vehicles to lose traction under certain conditions. Drivers who aren’t cautious on brined roads may still face sliding hazards, especially at higher speeds. Furthermore, if brine corrodes key components of your vehicle, such as the braking system or suspension, it could lead to a higher likelihood of an accident. Brine also can make post-collision damage worse by exposing previously unaffected areas to corrosive chemicals, increasing repair costs.

 

Collision Damage? Contact Elmer’s Auto Body for Collision Repair in South Jersey

Brined roads in the winter in New Jersey are meant to keep people safe, but brining can also be a double-edged sword. The salt used in the brine can damage your vehicle, and it can even make the roadways slick in certain conditions. Drive carefully!

 

If your vehicle has been involved in an accident, especially after traveling on brined roads, the team at Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. From assessing corrosion damage to providing expert collision repair, we offer top-notch services in South Jersey. Protect your vehicle and ensure it’s ready for the winter season by contacting us today for a professional inspection and repair. Call one of our three South Jersey locations to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.

How Do Freezing Temperatures Impact Road Safety in South Jersey?

Winter will soon be upon us here in South Jersey, and that means freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. Freezing temperatures have always presented a unique challenge for drivers, as such conditions can alter the roadways immensely. While snowstorms and icy conditions are the most obvious hazards, the cold itself can have a range of effects on road safety that are less visible but equally dangerous. Understanding how freezing temperatures impact both roads and vehicles can help drivers take necessary precautions to ensure safer journeys.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Black ice forms in freezing temperatures, especially on bridges and shaded areas, increasing accident risk due to its invisibility.
  • Cold weather hardens tires, reducing grip on icy roads. Winter tires improve safety, but many rely on less effective all-season tires.
  • Freezing conditions can cause battery failure, lower tire pressure, and thicker fluids, which affect performance and safety.
  • Salt is less effective below 20°F and can corrode your vehicle if not properly cleaned.
  • Drive slower, consider winter tires, monitor road conditions, and maintain your vehicle for better safety in cold weather.

 

The Formation of Ice on Roads

One of the most immediate dangers posed by freezing temperatures is the formation of ice on roadways. Black ice, in particular, is a significant hazard in South Jersey. This thin, nearly invisible layer of ice forms when moisture on the road freezes rapidly, especially overnight or during early morning hours. Because black ice blends into the asphalt, drivers often don’t notice it until they begin to lose traction, leading to potentially severe accidents.

 

Bridge decks, overpasses, and shaded areas are particularly prone to black ice since they freeze more quickly than other road surfaces. Even a light rain or snow flurry can lead to ice formation in freezing temperatures, increasing the risk for all motorists.

 

Ice Means Reduced Tire Traction

Did you know the cool temperatures change how your tires interact with the road’s surface? As temperatures drop, tire rubber hardens, reducing its grip on the road. In South Jersey winters, this can be a major issue, especially when roads are slick with snow or ice. Winter tires are designed to maintain flexibility in cold conditions, but many drivers in the region stick with all-season tires, which may not perform as effectively in freezing weather. Reduced traction increases stopping distances and makes it harder to control the vehicle during sudden maneuvers, making accidents more likely.

 

This is one reason why you should consider increasing your stopping distance when driving in the winter. Try not to tailgate when on the highway and keep your eyes on the road. Stopping on a dime in the winter may make your or other cars around you slide.

 

How Freezing Temperatures Impact a Vehicle

Freezing temperatures can do more to your vehicle than harden rubber. Key systems can also be impacted, compromising road safety. Those systems include:

 

  • Battery Failure: Cold weather is tough on car batteries, leading to reduced performance or failure altogether. A weak battery may not start, leaving drivers stranded in unsafe conditions.
  • Tire Pressure Drops: For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure decreases by about 1 PSI. Low tire pressure reduces traction, causes uneven tire wear, and increases the likelihood of a blowout.
  • Fluid Thickening: Essential fluids such as motor oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid thicken in cold temperatures, potentially leading to sluggish engine performance and slower brake response times.

 

Limitations of Road Salt

In South Jersey, road salt is a common measure used to combat icy roads. However, it has its limitations. Salt becomes less effective when temperatures fall below 20°F, which can leave roads icy even after treatment. Moreover, while road salt helps melt ice, it can also lead to corrosion of your vehicle’s undercarriage, brake lines, and exhaust system if left untreated.

 

In some cases, drivers may feel overly confident on roads that appear to have been salted, not realizing that residual ice may still pose a danger, especially in areas where salt coverage is uneven.

 

How You Can Drive Safely in Freezing Temperatures

One of the best things you can do to protect yourself, your passengers, and those around you is to adapt to the driving conditions. Freezing temperatures come with road risks, meaning you can’t drive the same in the winter as you would on a balmy summer day! To minimize risks, follow these driving tips:

 

  • Drive Cautiously: Reduce speed and increase following distance to account for slick roads and reduced traction.
  • Equip Your Vehicle: Consider switching to winter tires, which are designed to perform better in cold conditions. Regularly check tire pressure to maintain optimal performance.
  • Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be aware of road conditions, especially during early morning hours when black ice is more likely.
  • Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure that your car battery is in good condition, check fluids, and consider using a car wash with undercarriage cleaning to remove corrosive road salt.

 

Collision Damage? Contact Elmer’s Auto Body for Collision Repair in South Jersey

Freezing temperatures bring the promise of frost and snow…and roadway trouble. Cooler temperatures can affect how your vehicle operates, as well as the conditions of the road. If freezing temperatures have led to a winter accident or your vehicle has suffered damage from icy roads, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. Our expert team can assess collision damage and repair your car to ensure it’s ready for winter conditions. Contact one of our South Jersey locations to schedule a repair or inspection and drive with confidence through the colder months.