Winter driving is different. Anyone who’s driven for one winter in a place where it gets cold can tell you that. Icy roads reduce traction, slush and salt stain vehicles and increase oxidation, cold air inhibits battery performance, and, if you’re somewhere really cold, non-winterized washer fluid can freeze right to your windshield. It can be a real hassle even for winter lovers.
Because of the adverse conditions, it can be a lot easier to get into a collision when driving in winter. But is collision repair in winter any different from collision repair in other seasons? Do collision repair shops require special skills or tools to complete an auto body repair in winter? And how should you approach winter vehicle maintenance?
Collision repair in winter
There isn’t hard data that represents the number of collisions in each season, but there’s some evidence—such as higher numbers of insurance claims—that indicates winter is the most dangerous season for driving. This means collision repair shops have more car damage repair services to administer. We’ll get into how winter collision repair can be different, but first, what can you do to avoid sitting in a collision repair shop this winter?
Well, one thing many drivers do is drive slower. If the roads are frozen or slick, if snow impairs visibility, and other drivers are swerving around, then it’s best to take it slow. Cautious, defensive driving is always wise, but even more so in winter. If you’re running late—be late. Nothing’s worth risking your life and the lives of your passengers and others on the road.
Beyond safe driving, what else can you do? One important thing you can do is to prepare your vehicle for winter.
Winter vehicle maintenance
Here are some common winter maintenance services that can keep you safe and your vehicle healthy throughout the coldest months:
A seasonal tire changeover: You’ve probably heard it a million times, but, yes, you need winter tires (or all-weather tires) in winter. Even if it doesn’t snow much where you live and you don’t drive that often. All-season tires stiffen in temperatures as comparatively mild as 6℃. When it’s cool out, the rubber compounds in all-season and summer tires get too firm to grip the road properly. You simply don’t have the traction you need. Furthermore, all-weather and winter tires are designed with features, such as siping and special tread depths, that allow them to deal with snow, slush, and water better than other tires. If you want to avoid paying for a winter collision repair, get proper cold-weather tires.
Check your battery: Cold weather can reduce battery efficiency. Visit a collision repair shop to have your battery tested to ensure its fully charged and capable of handling low temperatures. Replace it if it’s near the end of its lifespan.
Top off washer fluid: Winter can throw a lot at your windshield, so replace worn windshield wipers and fill your washer reservoir with winter-grade fluid to prevent freezing.
Check coolant levels: Ensure your coolant/antifreeze is at the correct level and the right mixture to prevent freezing.
Get your brakes and suspension inspected: Winter roads can be slippery, so ensure your brakes and suspension are in top shape for optimal stopping and handling.
Pack an emergency kit: It’s always good to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, but especially in winter. Include items such as a flashlight, blankets, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, and non-perishable snacks.
What makes winter collision repair different?
Ask any technician about auto body repair in winter, and they can tell you it’s different. Here are some aspects of collision repair that are more different in winter:
There’s more collision repair in winter
As discussed earlier, there appear to be more collisions in winter, so auto body repair shops are busier. This, combined with potential weather-related supply chain delays, can result in lengthier repair timelines.
Rust treatment
Road salt can accelerate corrosion on a vehicle’s body and undercarriage. Even minor collision damage, such as scratches or dents, can expose bare metal to the elements, increasing the risk of rust. Collision repair shops can help prevent rust by applying anti-corrosion treatments, using specialized primers, and sealing repaired areas.
Undercarriage and suspension system repair
If you manage to avoid a full-on collision with another vehicle, icy and slushy rides might still send you sliding into curbs, potholes, or other obstacles. These impacts can easily damage suspension systems, wheels, and undercarriages. Collision repair mechanics often perform in-depth inspections of suspension systems and execute wheel alignments during winter repairs. Professional, certified mechanics work hard to address unseen damage, such as bent axles or misaligned wheels when conducting an auto body repair in winter.
Complex automotive paint matching
Cold temperatures impede how automotive paint cures. This can cause uneven finishes and peeling. To put the finishing touches on a collision repair in winter, technicians may use a slow-drying paint formula to ensure a durable and smooth finish. It also helps to work inside, in a climate-controlled garage.
Dent repair
Dent repair often involves applying heat to metal panels or plastic bumpers. Cold winter air can wreak havoc with this process. This is another reason it’s wise to have your car damage repaired by a collision repair shop with a large indoor garage.
