SHOULD YOU WARM YOUR CAR UP IN THE WINTER

[Grailhunter]

Such a simple question, but can you get a simple answer? The Green and anti-fossil fuel people will give you one answer. The insurance and warranty and car companies will give you another for different reasons. So lets go through a common sense discussion. Yes, warm your car up and here is why.

Common sense statement....
Before you hit the road all functions and features of your car should be functioning within operating perimeters.

1. The motors of modern cars and trucks 1990 and newer that are using synthetic motor oil only need a minute to run before driving....and if you are leaving the car in the driveway and sitting on top of the motor driving it around that is all that is required. If not there are other things to consider.

2. Some automatic transmissions do not shift well in cold weather and can be a distraction while driving. The warm coolant from the radiator will warm the transmission to correct operating temperatures.

3. Windshields, side and rear widows, and mirrors can frost up or fog up while driving, so the features that keep them clear should be warm enough to clear them.

4. Creature features....Yes we saved gas, but grandma and the kids suffered from hypothermia in a 20 degree car. Shivering and all bundled up can effect your ability to drive. Why not be comfortable?

 

[Michiah-Imla]

I warm my car up first.

I want it nice and warm when get in.

That’s all.

 

[Windmillcharge]

Here in England we don't get the really low temperatures you get, but when you windscreen is covered in frost, I always start the car and set the blower to max and directed to the windscreen.
For two reasons. Why ensure the car will start, a habit learnt when younger with temperamental old cars.
And the blower gently starts to warm the very co.d wi dscreen, making g keeping it clear of frost much easier.

 

[bluedragon]

When I lived in Cheyenne, WY. Got up and turned on the heater in the garage. By the time I ate breakfast, took a shower, got dressed .....That pickup truck was nice and warm Top to bottom.