Can My Honda Hybrid Handle the Cold?
Get Your Honda Hybrid Winter-Ready in Elmhurst, IL
During the colder months, there are specific, proactive steps drivers take to protect their gas-powered vehicles against the harsh elements. The same goes for Honda hybrids as well! It’s crucial that you prepare your fuel-efficient vehicle for any unfavorable conditions that may come your way. The team here at Honda on Grand has compiled some helpful tips and tricks on how to maintain your Honda hybrid to handle the tough climate. Bundle up and continue reading to learn more!
Tips on How to Maintain Optimal Performance
Perform a DIY Inspection
No matter if you’re taking a road trip or a short drive to the grocery store, make sure to give your Honda hybrid a quick inspection. This examination can include checking the A/C and electrical functions, oil and gas levels and wiper blade health. Refer to your owner’s manual and keep up with the recommended maintenance schedule so that your ride delivers optimal performance. If you’re unsure of what to inspect or you’re in need of a service, feel free to schedule an appointment with our expert technicians.
Check Tire Health
Tire pressure in your car can fluctuate the most during the chilly season. In fact, with every 10-degree drop in temperature, tires can lose a pound of pressure per square inch.* You want as much traction as possible so that your car can tackle the slippery roads, so monitoring the tire pressure and estimating the tires’ longevity will ensure you're driving in a safe vehicle. Honda hybrid vehicles have all-wheel drive either standard or available, depending on the model and trim you choose, so giving the utmost care to this powerful drivetrain will reassure your safety during every cruise.
Park in a Garage
Many people live in apartment buildings or townhomes that provide closed garages — this is an incredible plus! Whenever possible, try and store your Honda hybrid away from cold temperatures. If your model is equipped with the remote start function, this is even better — give your hybrid time to idle and warm up before embarking on your commute. A cold engine will require more energy, so letting it idle will provide the necessary lubrication and starting power in order for you to have a smooth drive.
Turn off the EV Driving Mode
Depending on how cold it gets, you may want to turn off the EV driving mode. While Honda hybrids can easily switch between their gas-powered engine and all-electric motor, you also have the option to manually turn on the EV driving mode. We highly recommend conserving the battery life as much as possible, especially if you notice a decrease in the all-electric motor’s performance. When in doubt, let the Honda hybrid do what it does best: automatically switch between both functions with ease!
Here at Honda on Grand, we’re convinced that your Honda hybrid can handle anything that our Illinois climate will throw at it. To learn more about our selection of new Honda hybrids, stop by our location at 300 W. Grand Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126. We serve customers near Addison, Chicago and Villa Park.
*According to AAA: https://magazine.northeast.aaa.com/daily/life/cars-trucks/what-causes-low-tire-pressure-in-winter/