In the heart of winter, residents in the Chicago area are bracing for two days of bitterly cold temperatures, with wind chills expected to plummet between -25 and -30 degrees. This harsh weather poses challenges for daily commutes, especially when it comes to warming up vehicles. The article delves into how long one should warm their car in extreme cold, the legality of unattended vehicle warming, and troubleshooting tips if a car refuses to start.

Chicago Prepares for Freezing Conditions: Practical Advice for Drivers

As the city shivers under a blanket of frost, drivers face the daunting task of preparing their vehicles for such frigid conditions. In the early hours of Monday night and into Tuesday morning, temperatures will drop sharply, making it crucial for commuters to understand the best practices for warming their cars. Experts from AAA Automotive recommend limiting the idling time to just enough for the engine to stabilize—approximately the time it takes to fasten your seatbelt. Driving gently after this brief warm-up brings the engine to operating temperature faster while reducing wear and emissions. Prolonged idling can harm the engine’s components and decrease fuel efficiency, according to experts at Carfax.

In Illinois, leaving a vehicle unattended with the engine running is illegal. The state’s vehicle code mandates that engines must be stopped, ignition locked, and keys removed before leaving a car unattended. However, using a remote starter system circumvents this rule, as it is not considered an unattended vehicle. Despite this loophole, authorities warn against potential theft risks associated with unattended vehicles.

If a car fails to start in the cold, it might indicate issues with the battery. Cold weather strains batteries, and signs of trouble include dim headlights, weak horn sounds, and malfunctioning electronic accessories. To address these problems, try warming the battery by flashing the high beams for 20-30 seconds or turning on the ignition and waiting for the fuel pump to engage. For manual transmissions, depress the clutch pedal to disengage the transmission before attempting to start the engine. If the car still does not start after multiple attempts, it may signal a dead battery or starter motor failure.

This challenging period highlights the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and adherence to local regulations. Drivers must balance the need to stay warm with the responsibility of ensuring safety and compliance with the law.

From a reader's perspective, this information underscores the necessity of being prepared for winter driving challenges. It serves as a reminder to regularly check and maintain vehicle systems, particularly the battery, and to familiarize oneself with local laws regarding unattended vehicles. By taking proactive measures, drivers can navigate the icy roads more safely and efficiently.