Sioux Falls Faces Bitter Cold; Is Your Vehicle Prepared?

With the Antarctic apparently eyeing property in the Sioux Empire over the next few days, it’s time to ask a very serious question: Is your car ready to survive what’s coming? This just in...the next couple of days, below-zero temperatures and dangerous wind chills are about to become our new normal.

While you’re layering up like a human snuggie these next few days, don’t forget that your vehicle needs some cold-weather love too. According to Dakota News Now, AAA is waving a giant red flag reminding drivers that extreme cold is when cars love to quit without notice.

First up: your battery.

Cold weather is basically kryptonite for car batteries. It takes more power to start your engine, and that’s before you crank the heat, seat warmers, steering wheel heaters, defrosters, and every other cozy feature your car offers. Fred Dirkson of Don’s Auto & Towing told Dakota News Now: If your battery is nearing five years old, it’s living on borrowed time. Test it. Replace it if it’s weak. Otherwise, you’ll be crossing your fingers every morning and hoping your car feels motivated enough to start.

Fuel is another biggie.

AAA recommends keeping your gas tank at least half full. Lower fuel levels can allow moisture to build up and freeze, making it harder for fuel to reach the engine. Plus, running out of gas in sub-zero temps is not the kind of adventure anyone wants.

Then there are tires.

Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, triggering those dashboard warning lights we all love to ignore. Don’t. Underinflated tires can lead to frozen valve cores and reduced traction, two things you really don’t want on icy roads.

Also on the winter checklist:

Antifreeze levels, spark plugs, and paying attention to that “check engine” light instead of pretending it’s decorative. AAA suggests having your vehicle inspected twice a year by a trained mechanic to handle Mother Nature's mood-swing weather in South Dakota.

Finally, if you can park in a garage, do it.

A little shelter can make a big difference in helping shield your vehicle from the harsh elements.

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Those of us who live in South Dakota know all too well that winter isn’t just a season, it’s a stress test. It's highly recommended that every motorist take a few extra minutes of preparation now, as it can save you from a frozen driveway standoff later, where it’s just you, your car, and bitter cold wind chills.

Spoiler alert: cold winter weather usually wins.