Do you need snow tires or chains in Winter? Maybe so...
Photo Credit: Oregon Department of Transportation

During the winter season your Mini Cooper can experience specific issues due to freezing temperatures and harsh weather and road conditions. With regular Mini Cooper maintenance you may be able to minimize the risk of a breakdown and possible catastrophic damage, but sometimes things happen that are out of your control. Here are some of the most common Mini Cooper repairs and issues that you may face in the winter months.

Keep your battery running in freezing winter temps!
Photo Credit: Carodean Road Designs

What does a car battery actually do?

Obviously, we all know the battery in your Mini Cooper serves as a crucial component that provides electrical power to various electrical systems in the vehicle. The main functions include, starting the engine, powering lights/radio/windows/AC/etc, and voltage stabilization.

What is antifreeze and do I need it?
Photo Credit: Alex Pepperhill

What Is Antifreeze?

Antifreeze is a liquid mixture of water and ethylene glycol that is used to prevent the freezing and overheating of the engine in your Mini Cooper. You may have heard the term “coolant” interchanged with “antifreeze,” they are similar, but comprised of different concentrations.

Do I need winter tires or snow tires for my ride?
Photo Credit: Jack Lyons

The term “winter tires” may also be referred to as “snow tires.” They are designed to provide your Mini Cooper with better handling, traction and braking in cold conditions, including snow and ice. You won’t need to have them on your Mini Cooper all year long, as it is advisable to switch back to all-season tires for optimal performance in the warmer months.

A few factors can help determine if your Mini Cooper should have winter tires. Things to consider include:

Helping hands during COVID-19 Crisis
Photo Credit: Branimir Balogović

While the COVID-19 pandemic has been sweeping across the nation, many people and businesses have been helping to support the fearless men and women on the frontline, who are helping those that are sick or in need of care. Whether it is collecting and donating all sorts of PPE equipment and shipping them to local hospitals and assisted living homes, or crafting homemade face masks and protective face shields and dropping them off at nearby medical facilities, it seems like many are doing their part to pitch in and help.