1. Cooling System
Many people know that antifreeze must be replaced when going to cold regions, and this is indeed essential. When choosing antifreeze, pay attention to its stated freezing point to avoid selecting the wrong one. Antifreeze labeled -20 will definitely work in Beijing, but it will still freeze in the northeast or northern Inner Mongolia. Additionally, over time, as ethylene glycol evaporates, the freezing point of antifreeze gradually rises. For example, antifreeze rated at -40 from last year may measure around -32 after a year of use. Therefore, manufacturers generally recommend replacing antifreeze every two years. If you feel your vehicle doesn’t need a change, it’s best to measure the current freezing point to prevent unnecessary trouble. The instrument used to measure the freezing point is very simple to use. When selecting antifreeze, some manufacturers offer specific additives tailored to engine characteristics. For such vehicles, it’s best to use the original manufacturer’s antifreeze. For instance, the original antifreeze for the Jeep Cherokee contains specially added silicone oil to help lubricate circulation components like the water pump. Using antifreeze without silicone oil can shorten the life of the water pump.
An important component of the cooling system is the thermostat. Some people remove the thermostat to prevent high water temperatures in summer, but it must be reinstalled in winter. The thermostat allows the circulation system to quickly warm up, ensuring the engine reaches its normal operating temperature as soon as possible. In the extremely cold regions of the northeast, many drivers place covers in front of the radiator to maintain water temperature. Also, check the radiator for leaks, including signs of aging in the upper and lower hoses.
The air conditioning system is also crucial—no one wants to drive around in a car without heating. Check the AC’s airflow and hot air temperature in advance. If necessary, clean the dryer, as a comfortable cabin environment contributes to better driving mood.
2. Lubrication System
The lubrication system is another critical aspect for dealing with extreme cold. First is the engine oil. Many oil manufacturers now promote all-season oils, typically with a viscosity of 10W-40, which can handle most low-temperature regions. However, in areas where temperatures can drop to -30°C, this isn’t sufficient—the oil becomes too thick, making it difficult to start the vehicle. In such cases, it’s best to switch to 5W oil, or even 0W, in advance. Personally, I recommend using fully synthetic oil, as it offers better fluidity and chemical stability in low temperatures. Some mineral oils may exhibit impurity precipitation in cold conditions.
Gear oil is sometimes overlooked. In extremely cold regions, gear oil should also be switched to a lower viscosity type, though many find this inconvenient because they must switch back to higher viscosity oil when returning to warmer areas. Here’s a tip: in the morning, after warming up the vehicle, drive at higher speeds for a while to thoroughly mix the gear oil before resuming normal driving. Also, check the condition of brake fluid, power steering fluid, clutch fluid, automatic transmission fluid, transfer case fluid, grease, and even windshield washer fluid to avoid issues.
3. Rubber Components
Rubber components mainly include two parts: tire rubber and flexible rubber hoses. Tires must be checked before departure, as they are a key factor in safe driving and absolutely cannot be ignored. Inspect tire pressure, look for cuts, bulges, or embedded objects—all of which require immediate replacement. Check for uneven wear or tire cupping, which may necessitate a wheel alignment adjustment. Also, examine the rubber surface for cracks; cracked tires indicate aging, making the rubber brittle and risky in frigid regions. Typically, rubber tires are designed to last 3 years or 80,000 km. While reaching this limit doesn’t always mean replacement is mandatory, it’s a good time to start paying closer attention.
4. Battery
Starting a vehicle in the morning in cold regions can be a struggle, often because the battery can’t provide enough power in low temperatures. The best solution is to park in a heated garage. If that’s unavailable, park in a sheltered spot. As a last resort, remove the battery and store it indoors overnight, then reinstall it in the morning—this method is more reliable. Additionally, battery quality varies greatly, with fewer than half lasting their advertised lifespan. Many fail within just over a year, which is worth noting. If you’re unsure about your battery’s condition, replacing it before departure is a wise choice. Well-known brands tend to last longer, and lead-acid batteries that require fluid refilling outlast maintenance-free ones. Capacitor-type batteries are highly recommended—they’re largely unaffected by cold—but they come with a high price tag.
5. Special Equipment
Essential special equipment for frigid regions primarily includes items for dealing with ice and snow, such as snow chains, sand/snow boards, and shovels. Other off-road gear should also be prepared, along with appropriate clothing: hats, shoes, gloves, tinted glasses, and ideally face protection, as northern winds can feel like knives.
6. Driving Precautions
Driving on icy or snowy roads differs from other conditions, with one key principle: "slow down." Avoid sudden acceleration (four-wheel-drive helps somewhat) and hard braking. Don’t steer while braking (ABS helps, but not much), and using lower gears can reduce braking distance. Slow down before turns, avoid sudden acceleration mid-turn, and only accelerate after straightening out of the turn. When driving across snowy plains, watch the road ahead and try to follow existing tire tracks. In deep snow areas, proceed cautiously—always assess conditions before advancing. When parking at night, choose a flat spot and avoid engaging the handbrake, as brake pads may freeze.Traveler's Noteshttp://bbs.xzwyu.com
Much of the above is common knowledge, yet many forget it when it’s actually needed. Gear isn’t everything—having ample equipment boosts driver confidence. The most critical factors in icy driving are experience and mindset, both of which are hard to prepare for. Practicing in advance is highly recommended. Wishing everyone a smooth and enjoyable icy adventure. (Sina)