The state of Wisconsin experienced a severe drop in temperatures on Tuesday morning, with wind chills plummeting to as low as -35 degrees in certain areas. The Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect in southeastern Wisconsin until noon. The frigid conditions have raised concerns about vehicle reliability and safe driving practices. Consumer intelligence company J.D. Power warns that the cold can cause car batteries to fail, leaving drivers stranded. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation has provided guidelines on how to prevent vehicle breakdowns and drive safely during extreme cold weather.

Preventing Vehicle Breakdowns in Freezing Temperatures

Cold weather can significantly impact vehicle performance, particularly affecting battery function. To ensure your car starts reliably, several precautions can be taken. Ensuring the battery is fully charged is crucial, as low charge levels can prevent the engine from turning over. Simple techniques such as warming the battery by using the high beams or waiting for the fuel pump to engage can make a difference. Additionally, manual transmission vehicles may require specific steps to disengage frozen components before starting.

In detail, if you find yourself struggling to start your vehicle in the cold, try warming the battery by activating the high beams for 20-30 seconds. This helps increase the battery's temperature slightly. For cars with fuel injectors, wait a few seconds after turning the ignition to allow the fuel pump to activate. If your vehicle has a carburetor, manually adjust the choke. For manual transmissions, depress the clutch pedal before attempting to start the engine. Limit each start attempt to no more than 10-15 seconds to avoid overheating the starter motor. If the engine still doesn't start after three attempts, gently press the gas pedal while trying again. These steps can help mitigate common issues caused by extreme cold.

Safety Measures and Driving Tips for Extreme Cold Weather

Driving in such harsh conditions requires extra caution. Authorities recommend staying off the roads whenever possible, especially during storms or periods of extreme cold. However, if travel is necessary, several safety measures should be followed. Maintaining proper tire pressure is critical, as it decreases with falling temperatures. An emergency kit with food and warm clothing should always be kept in the vehicle. Keeping the fuel tank at least half-full prevents fuel lines from freezing and provides additional fuel in case of emergencies.

To ensure safe driving, avoid using hot water to de-ice windows, as this can cause glass to crack. Instead, use defrosters and windshield scrapers along with winter-grade washer fluid to clear ice and snow effectively. If you encounter difficulties like sliding off the road or becoming stranded, remain inside the vehicle and contact emergency services. Leaving the vehicle in freezing temperatures poses significant risks. By following these guidelines, drivers can better navigate the challenges posed by extreme cold weather, ensuring their safety and the reliability of their vehicles.