Winter is one of the most dangerous seasons for your engine. Every year, repair shops see a 40%+ increase in engine failures during cold months, and it’s not coincidence — it’s science.
Cold temperatures expose weaknesses that engines can survive in warmer weather but can’t withstand once winter hits. If your vehicle struggled during holiday travel or failed after a cold snap, you’re not alone.
How Cold Weather Damages Your Engine
Cold Oil Causes Excessive Wear
When temperatures drop, motor oil thickens. Thick oil doesn’t circulate fast enough at startup, leaving critical components unprotected. In fact, up to 75% of engine wear occurs during cold starts, making winter mornings especially harmful.
Metal Contracts in Low Temperatures
Engines are built with tight tolerances. Cold weather causes metal components to contract, reducing clearances and increasing friction. Engines with existing wear — even minor — often fail once these tolerances tighten.
Weak Batteries Lead to Hard Starts
Cold weather can reduce battery power by as much as 50%, forcing engines to crank longer. This added stress increases internal wear and accelerates failure.
Warning Signs of Winter Engine Damage
Watch for these red flags:
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Knocking or ticking at startup
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Rough idling in cold weather
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Oil pressure warning lights
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White or blue exhaust smoke
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Sudden loss of power
Ignoring these symptoms often leads to complete engine failure — especially in winter.
When Repairs Aren’t Enough
Many drivers assume a new engine is the only solution after winter damage. That assumption can cost thousands.
A remanufactured engine offers a smarter alternative. At PowerEngines, our engines are fully disassembled, rebuilt to OEM specifications, and updated to address known failure points — including cold-weather vulnerabilities.
Protect Your Vehicle This Winter
If winter exposed underlying engine issues, replacing the engine early prevents further damage and restores long-term reliability.
Explore PowerEngines’ remanufactured engine inventory and get back on the road with confidence — even in the coldest conditions.
