#2011 - Cold Mornings, Classic Cars & Costly Repairs

Kwp image feb 23 2026 02 23 40 pm

Coffee & Cars in Augusta: Cold Mornings, Loud Engines, and Costly Tech

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The C&C Auto Show crew set up early at a Coffee & Cars event in downtown Augusta, Georgia—before the lot filled up and while it was still freezing outside. As the classics rolled in (from Chevelles and Camaros to Corvettes and everything in between), the conversation shifted from cool cars to the everyday questions that hit drivers this time of year.

This episode covers why vehicles need exhaust systems, what that “smoke” really is on cold starts, and why small modern engines can make surprising power. The team also digs into why today’s repairs and insurance claims feel so expensive—between sensors, scanning, calibrations, and parts availability—plus practical winter reminders like tire pressure drops, battery weakness in the cold, and avoiding frozen-wiper damage. Listen or watch the full episode below.

Questions and Answers

Quick answers from our Coffee & Cars Augusta episode—winter tips, exhaust basics, and why modern repairs cost more.

Why do cars and trucks need an exhaust system?

Exhaust does two main jobs: it quiets the engine and routes fumes safely out of the vehicle. Modern exhaust systems also help reduce harmful emissions using components like catalytic converters and sensors.

Why do I see white “smoke” coming from the tailpipe on cold mornings?

Most of the time it’s just condensation—water vapor that shows up when the exhaust is cold. It usually disappears once the engine and exhaust warm up.

Why did my tire pressure light come on when the temperature dropped?

Cold air is denser, so tire pressure naturally drops as temperatures fall. Low pressure can hurt fuel economy and tire wear, so check and top off your tires when the first cold snaps hit.

How much can cold weather affect my car battery?

At around freezing temperatures, a battery can lose a big chunk of its cranking power. If your battery is already weak or older, cold mornings are when it’s most likely to fail.

Do I need to warm up my car before driving in the morning?

Modern engines don’t need a long warm-up for lubrication like older vehicles did. Give it a brief moment to stabilize, then drive gently—warm-up is mostly for your comfort and defrosting.

Why do small engines make so much power now compared to older cars?

Turbocharging, supercharging, and newer engine design let smaller engines produce big horsepower. Some setups even use electric-assisted turbos to reduce lag and deliver quicker boost.

Why are collision repairs so expensive now, even for a small hit?

Newer vehicles have cameras, radar, sensors, and control modules that often require scanning and calibration after repairs. That added technology—and the labor to diagnose it—can turn a “fender bender” into a pricey job.

Why can’t a basic parts-store scan tell me everything that’s wrong?

Many free scans only read basic engine “P-codes.” ABS, airbag, transmission, network, and manufacturer-specific codes often require higher-level tools to access and interpret.

What happens if my windshield wipers are frozen and I start the car?

If the wipers were left on, they may try to move as soon as you start the car. If they’re stuck to the windshield, you can strip parts or overload the circuit—free them up first before turning them on.

Can I keep a totaled car and drive it again if the airbags didn’t get replaced?

You can usually retain the salvage, but to legally drive it again the vehicle typically has to pass an inspection. If safety systems like airbags are missing, it may fail inspection and can’t be registered for the road.

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