RAM service becomes especially important once winter temperatures settle in, because cold weather directly impacts the systems you rely on most every morning. At A.M. Maus and Son in Kimball, Minnesota, drivers see firsthand how freezing starts, icy roads, and fluctuating temperatures test batteries, brakes, and tires across central Minnesota.
Cold Weather and Battery Performance
Low temperatures slow the chemical reactions inside your battery, reducing its ability to deliver power. According to manufacturer data, a battery can lose a significant portion of its cranking strength once temperatures drop below freezing. That sluggish start you feel on a cold morning is often the first sign of reduced battery performance, not sudden failure.
How Winter Impacts Brake Systems
Cold weather changes how brake components respond, especially during the first few stops of the day. Brake fluid can thicken slightly in low temperatures, and road salt may accelerate wear on exposed components. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that consistent braking performance depends on clean, properly functioning hardware, which is why seasonal inspections matter before winter driving conditions peak.
Tire Pressure Drops in the Cold
As temperatures fall, tire air contracts, lowering pounds per square inch and reducing the tire contact patch. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises checking tire pressure regularly in winter, since underinflated tires can increase stopping distance and reduce traction. Properly inflated tires help maintain grip on cold pavement and light snow.
Why Seasonal Inspections Matter
Winter magnifies small issues that may go unnoticed in warmer months. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) emphasizes that vehicle condition plays a major role in winter crash prevention, alongside driver awareness. A seasonal check helps ensure key systems respond predictably when roads are slick and visibility drops.
Schedule Winter Service at A.M. Maus and Son in Kimball, MN
Preparing for winter driving starts with RAM service that addresses cold-weather stress points before they become problems. The team at A.M. Maus and Son in Kimball, MN, can inspect your battery, braking components, and tires to help keep daily driving confident through the coldest months. Schedule your service appointment before the winter conditions escalate!