
Winter can be magical, but for car owners it often becomes a headache. Frosty air and cold can ruin even things that seem safe. The publication “Automoto” told what things should not be left in the car in winter.
1. Gadgets and batteries
Electronics like smartphones and power banks can't handle the cold. Batteries lose capacity in low temperatures, and can even fail in extreme cold. Your smartphone's screen can also crack if you turn it on right after it's been cold. Condensation inside the device can cause a short circuit.
2. Drinks
Bottles of water or soda can burst when the liquid freezes. So always take your drink bottles home to avoid a trip to the dry cleaners.
3. Medicines
If you are carrying medication with you, especially insulin, syrups, or sprays, be careful. Most medications lose their properties if they are frozen.
Always store medications at room temperature or use special thermal covers.
4. Glasses
Leaving glasses in a car in the cold is a bad idea. The cold makes the materials from which glasses are made extremely fragile. Plastic frames become brittle and can crack with even the slightest pressure. Metal frames also suffer - they can deform.
Also, lenses with anti-reflective or photochromic coatings may develop microcracks or other defects.
5. Products
In winter, a car is not a refrigerator, although it is really cold inside. It is more like a freezer with chaotic mode. Vegetables, fruits or dairy products freeze, lose their appearance, texture and taste, and the packaging of milk or yogurt can burst.
Don't leave food in the car for long periods of time. Plan your trips so that you unload your groceries as soon as you get home.
6. Aerosols
Hairspray, spray paint, deodorant – all of these can explode due to the liquid freezing and excessive pressure inside the can.
7. Automotive fluids
Summer windshield washer fluid or old antifreeze can freeze and block the washer system or damage vehicle parts. Use only winter fluids with a low freezing point. Check the antifreeze level and condition regularly.