Due to the low temperature in winter, a number of additional requirements for the operation of the car appear. Failure to comply with these requirements will shorten the life of the vehicle.
1. Engine coolant must meet the requirements of low temperature operation (see «Reference data»).
2. Viscosity of engine oil must meet the requirements of operation at low temperatures (see «Reference data»).
3. Check the electrolyte level and the state of charge of the battery (see «Battery - Maintenance»). At low temperatures, the density of the electrolyte decreases, making it difficult to start the engine.
4. Before driving, let the engine idle for about five minutes. After that, you can start moving, not allowing the crankshaft speed to exceed 3000-3500 min1.
5. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with anti-freeze fluid only (see «Filling with windshield washer fluid»).
6. Install winter tires of the prescribed type and size; when using wheel snow chains, install them on the wheels of the car according to the attached instructions.
7. When driving through deep snow or ice, keep a constant low speed, avoid abrupt steering and brakes.
8. Periodically check the condition of the wheel arches, the accumulated snow and ice can significantly affect driving.
9. After driving on roads sprayed with de-icing agents, wash the vehicle before parking it.
10. Make sure that after washing, blow out the lock cylinders with compressed air and wipe the door seals, otherwise the water will freeze and you will not be able to open the door. After washing, it is better to treat the door seals with silicone grease (si. «Processing door seals»).
11. When stopping or parking, be careful when using the parking brake, as there is a chance that snow or water that has accumulated around the parking brake mechanism may freeze and block it from disengaging.