During the winter months, it is common to see cars in Ukrainian cities that remain buried under snow for extended periods. Many owners assume that this way the car is simply “resting,” but experts warn that such “storage” outdoors can lead to significant problems for the vehicle.
This is reported by Finway
How Snow and Ice Affect the Body and Brake System
The body of the car suffers the most from winter inactivity. The constant alternation of thaws and frosts contributes to the formation of an icy crust on the car’s surface. This damages the paintwork, creating micro-cracks that later become centers of corrosion. It is particularly risky to leave a car near the road, as a mixture of snow and road reagents settles on the body, significantly accelerating the rusting of thresholds, wheel arches, and joints. Moisture accumulates not only on the surface but also on the underside of the car.
Long-term parking negatively affects the brake system as well: rust quickly appears on the discs and calipers, which can cause the brakes to “stick” or operate less effectively during the first drive. Rubber components – door seals, wipers, and bushings – become brittle in the cold, lose elasticity, and often crack.
Invisible Problems: What Happens Inside the Car
Especially insidious are the consequences that do not manifest immediately. Condensation accumulates in the engine, and engine oil and antifreeze gradually lose their properties during prolonged inactivity. The battery discharges much faster in cold conditions, and after just a few weeks without movement, it can completely fail. Additional danger is posed by melting snow: if the drainage holes are blocked by ice, moisture can seep under the hood or into the cabin, increasing the risk of damaging the electronics.
“Experts recommend that even during inactivity, you regularly clear the car of snow, periodically warm up the engine, and monitor the battery’s condition to avoid expensive repairs in the spring.”
Thus, neglecting regular care for the car during the winter can lead to significant financial costs for restoring the vehicle in the spring.