Mechanic offers vehicle safety tips amid below-zero temperatures in Mid-Missouri

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Sub-zero temperatures rolled through Mid-Missouri this weekend and frigid temps are expected to last through early Wednesday. The intense cold could lead to mechanical issues for vehicles.

Tim Siebrandt, Manager of A to Z Auto Repair in Columbia, said as long as appropriate steps are taken, colder temperatures shouldn't become problematic.

According to Siebrandt, drivers should first check their vehicle's tire pressure.

This is especially important for vehicles that have pressure monitors flashing within the vehicle to alert drivers that the pressure is low. For vehicles that do not have an alert system, Siebrandt said it's crucial for drivers to utilize a tire pressure gauge.

"You want to check all your tire pressures, just make sure they're up," Siebrandt said. "Most of the time, after it sits over night, they will actually drop pressure when it gets colder out."

Siebrandt also said it's important for drivers to double-check that their tires have enough tread.

Not having enough tread on tires could lead to a tire blowing out, especially on busy interstates traveling at high speeds in slick conditions. This can be done by looking at the appearance of the tire. When visible cracking becomes apparent, the tire should be replaced, according to Siebrandt.

Siebrandt also recommends people make sure they have windshield washer fluid that is designed for temperatures that drop below 0 degrees.

"You know, obviously, actually check and make sure the tank itself is full," Siebrandt said. "You're also gonna check the level on your coolant tank to make sure that it is at the full mark."

Siebrandt also said it's a good idea for drivers to allow their vehicles to warm up before driving them to avoid the windshield freezing while driving, which would decrease visibility. Making sure the windshield wipers of the vehicle are not stuck to the windshield is also important, according to Siebrandt.

In the event that a person gets stranded in their vehicle due to the weather, Siebrandt said he recommends having as much gas in your vehicle as possible. Having an extra blanket, cell phone, an emergency kit and jumper cables are also important items to have.

If the windshield of a vehicle has snow or ice on it, Siebrandt said hot water should not be used to defrost it.