New mechanic - turns pink when cold, empty means death

Rapidly depletes, especially when shivering

Alcoholic drinks count but dehydrate later

The first day in My Winter Car is the most critical period of your entire playthrough. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the optimal sequence of events to survive your initial 24 hours, secure stable income, and set up the foundation for your long-term success.

Day 1 Survival Guide: Your First 24 Hours in My Winter Car

My Winter Car presents a dramatic shift from the carefree summer of the predecessor. The omnipresent threat of hypothermia, complex vehicle mechanics, and economic pressures create a "perfect storm" that can trap unprepared players in a death spiral of cold, poverty, and mechanical failure.

This guide provides a **tested route** that maximizes efficiency while minimizing risk. Follow it closely on your first playthrough, then adapt based on your preferences and experience.

Introduction: Welcome to Winter

Before we begin, ensure you understand these key mechanics:

Pre-Start Checklist

```json
{
  "survivalStats": [
    {
      "stat": "Body Temperature",
      "icon": "❄️",
      "dangerLevel": "Critical",
      "counterMeasure": "Heat sources, clothing, alcohol",
      "description": "New mechanic - turns pink when cold, empty means death"
    },
    {
      "stat": "Hunger",
      "icon": "🍖",
      "dangerLevel": "High",
      "counterMeasure": "Food purchases",
      "description": "Rapidly depletes, especially when shivering"
    },
    {
      "stat": "Thirst",
      "icon": "💧",
      "dangerLevel": "High",
      "counterMeasure": "Water, beer, milk",
      "description": "Alcoholic drinks count but dehydrate later"
    },
    {
      "stat": "Stress",
      "icon": "😰",
      "dangerLevel": "Medium",
      "counterMeasure": "Cigarettes, alcohol, sauna",
      "description": "Impairs driving and mechanical work"
    },
    {
      "stat": "Fatigue",
      "icon": "😴",
      "dangerLevel": "Medium",
      "counterMeasure": "Sleep",
      "description": "Builds from activity and stress"
    },
    {
      "stat": "Urine",
      "icon": "🚽",
      "dangerLevel": "Low",
      "counterMeasure": "Urinate",
      "description": "More of a hygiene/immersion mechanic"
    }
  ]
}
```

Critical Survival Stats

The defining feature of My Winter Car is the **Body Temperature** bar:

- **Safe Zone**: Blue/white bar (normal)
- **Warning Zone**: Pink bar (hypothermia setting in)
- **Danger Zone**: Empty bar (hypothermia, health draining)
- **Death**: Character dies from exposure

**Thermal Vectors:**
1. **Convection** (wind chill) - Moving air strips heat
2. **Insulation** (clothing) - Player starts with summer clothes
3. **External Heat** - District heating, car heater, alcohol

The Body Temperature Mechanic

The Golden Path: Hour-by-Hour Walkthrough

#### 09:00 - Waking Up

**Your Situation:**
- Location: Rented apartment in Peräjärvi
- Time: Monday, 09:00
- Money: ~2,100 markka
- Status: Hungover (sensory distortion, dehydration)

**Immediate Actions:**
1. **Check Stats** - Look at hunger, thirst, urine bars
2. **Use Toilet** - Empty bladder (P key)
3. **Turn On Radiators** - Critical for sleep tonight
4. **Check Food** - Inventory your apartment
5. **Exit Building** - Time is money, daylight is life

**Pro Tips:**
- Don't dawdle in the apartment - time passes quickly
- The Body Temp bar starts stable indoors but drops immediately outside
- Check if block heater is plugged in (window view of parking lot)

#### 09:15 - The Parking Lot Ritual

**Action Sequence:**

1. **Exit Building & Run to Car**
   - Body Temp starts dropping immediately
   - Don't stop to appreciate the snow

2. **Start Engine Procedure**
   - Pull choke (under dash, left of steering wheel)
   - Turn ignition key
   - Pump gas rhythmically while cranking
   - Maintain 2000-2500 RPM

3. **Heat Management**
   - Fan: High (3 or 4)
   - Temperature: MAX (red)
   - Rear defrost: ON

4. **Window Scraping**
   - Start scraping ice (integrated interaction)
   - Work systematically: windshield, sides, rear
   - Jump back in car if Body Temp drops too low

5. **Disconnect Block Heater**
   - **CRITICAL**: Unplug cable from front grille
   - Forgetting this can cause physics glitches
   - Throw cable in car if loose

**Common Mistakes:**
- Forgetting to pull choke (engine won't start)
- Driving off with block heater attached
- Scraping before starting (wastes fuel and time)
- Letting Body Temp drop too low

#### 09:45 - The Drive to PSK

**Route:** Apartment → PSK Service Centre
**Distance:** ~3-5 km
**Road Conditions:** Icy, snow-covered

**Driving Technique:**
- **Transmission**: Use 3rd or 4th gear (high gear, low RPM)
- **Braking**: Early, gentle inputs
- **Acceleration**: Gentle to prevent wheelspin
- **Cornering**: Slow down before, not during turns

**If You Slide:**
- Don't panic
- Steer INTO the slide (FWD understeer)
- Lift off gas slightly
- Regain traction before correcting

**Traffic Hazards:**
- Aggressive AI drivers
- "Green Perkele" (cousin) in Datsun truck
- Moose crossings (rare but fatal)
- Police speed cameras (new mechanic)

Hour 1 (09:00-10:00): Awakening & First Steps

#### 10:30 - Arrival at PSK

**Parking:** Park at fuel pumps or front lot

**Mission Priority Order:**

1. **Fuel** (Critical)
   - Insert debit card in pump terminal
   - Set PIN code (write it down!)
   - Select amount (200-300 mk)
   - Pump 95 or 98 octane gasoline
   - **Never use diesel or MPÖ (fuel oil)**

2. **Classifieds Magazine** (Critical)
   - Yellow magazine/book
   - Price: ~20 mk
   - **This is THE most important purchase**
   - Contains ads for project car and parts

3. **Food** (High Priority)
   - Sausages (Makkara): ~15 mk
   - Milk/Juice: ~10 mk
   - Fast, high-calorie items

4. **Survival Supplies**
   - Cigarettes: ~20 mk (stress reduction)
   - Beer case: ~140 mk (stress + warmth)

5. **Car Parts** (Medium Priority)
   - Spare headlight bulbs: ~30 mk
   - Essential for night driving

6. **Dining** (Optional but Recommended)
   - PSK Grill/Cafeteria
   - Order burger or hot meal
   - Eat there to zero hunger stat
   - Use restroom, check phone messages

**Shopping List Summary:**
```json
{
  "items": [
    {"name": "Fuel (95/98)", "priority": "Critical", "cost": "200-300 mk"},
    {"name": "Classifieds Magazine", "priority": "Critical", "cost": "~20 mk"},
    {"name": "Sausages", "priority": "High", "cost": "~15 mk"},
    {"name": "Beer Case", "priority": "High", "cost": "~140 mk"},
    {"name": "Cigarettes", "priority": "Medium", "cost": "~20 mk"},
    {"name": "Headlight Bulbs", "priority": "Medium", "cost": "~30 mk"}
  ],
  "totalEstimate": "425-545 mk"
}
```

#### 11:30 - The Classifieds Hunt

**Location:** In Sorbet (heater on)

**Action:** Open the Classifieds Magazine

**Target:**
- Look for "Corris Rivett" or similar description
- RWD (rear-wheel drive)
- 2-door or 4-door
- "Project car" or "non-running"
- Price: ~500 mk

**What to Look For:**
```
"Ford-based RWD sedan, 1970s, project car.
Has engine, needs assembly. 500 mk.
Call 08-609-553. Reijo."
```

**If Found:**
- Note the phone number
- Mark location on map
- Plan retrieval for Day 2 or 3

**If Not Found:**
- Check every issue (magazines refresh stock)
- Ask around town
- Check bulletin boards
- Wait for new issue (2-3 days)

Hour 2 (10:00-12:00): PSK Logistics

#### 12:00 - Futufon Office

**Location:** Old Kotimuoti factory building
**Mission:** Secure main job for income

**Procedure:**

1. **Enter Building**
   - Modern office space
   - Reception area

2. **Talk to Suski (Receptionist)**
   - Small talk
   - Request to see manager

3. **Enter Mr. Teffelgren's Office**
   - Corporate manager
   - Will present contract

4. **The Waiting Game**
   - He will talk about "synergy" and "paradigms"
   - Phone will ring
   - He will talk for 2-3 minutes
   - **DO NOT LEAVE**
   - Stand there patiently
   - Press K occasionally (affirmative/swear)

5. **Signing Contract**
   - Eventually presents work contract
   - Hours: 07:00-17:00, Monday-Friday
   - Starting: Next workday
   - Sign it immediately

**Why This Job Matters:**
- Provides steady income (1,500-2,000 mk/day)
- Funds project car acquisition
- Enables parts purchases
- Critical for long-term success

**Pro Tips:**
- Patience is key - don't give up
- Bring a cigarette for stress
- Check your phone for messages
- Save game after signing

#### 13:30 - Making the Call

**Location:** PSK payphone or apartment phone

**Action:** Dial the number from the classified ad

**Expected Outcome:**
- Connect with Reijo Livaloinen
- Discuss the project car
- Get directions to his location
- Schedule viewing/purchase

**What to Expect:**
```
"You found my ad! Good. Car's in barn
out Kesselinperä way. Bring 500 mk cash.
Comes as-is, needs towing."
```

**If Phone is Busy:**
- Try again later
- Use payphone (costs 5-10 mk)
- Call from apartment if you have phone

Hour 3 (12:00-14:00): Securing Employment

#### 14:00 - The Decision Point

**Current Time:** 15:00 (sunset approaching)

**Options:**

**Option A: Retrieve Today (Risky)**
- Drive to Reijo's location immediately
- Requires tow vehicle (tractor rental or friend)
- Darkness falling
- Dangerous return journey

**Option B: Plan for Tomorrow (Recommended)**
- Note the location on map
- Return home safely
- Prepare for Day 2 recovery mission
- Rent or borrow tow vehicle

**Recommendation:** Choose Option B. Darkness + winter + unknown location = recipe for disaster.

#### 15:00 - Return Journey

**Route:** PSK → Apartment

**Hazards:**
- Complete darkness
- Moose crossings
- Police speed cameras (reduced visibility)
- Snow drifts forming

**Driving Tips:**
- Use headlights (both working?)
- Reduce speed significantly
- Watch for deer/moose eyes
- Don't panic if you slide

Hour 4 (14:00-16:00): Project Car Acquisition

#### 16:00 - Arrival Home

**Parking:** Apartment lot

**Shutdown Protocol:**
1. Turn off lights, heater, ignition
2. Plug block heater back in (CRITICAL)
3. Lock car if desired
4. Check Body Temp bar (indoor warmth)

**Apartment Tasks:**
1. Turn on radiators (ensure heating)
2. Eat food purchased (sausages, etc.)
3. Drink beer to reduce stress
4. Smoke cigarettes if needed

#### 17:00 - Planning Tomorrow

**Task List for Day 2:**
1. Retrieve project car (tow vehicle needed)
2. Transport to garage/parking space
3. Begin assembly process
4. Continue working at Futufon

**Preparation:**
- Check Classifieds Magazine again
- List needed tools/parts
- Plan build order
- Budget remaining money

#### 18:00 - Save Game

**Method 1: Sleep**
- Enter bedroom
- Press K to sleep
- Time advances to 07:00 next day
- All stats reset to safe levels

**Method 2: Toilet (if implemented)**
- Use bathroom
- Press K to "use toilet"
- Quicksave function

**Recommended:** Sleep to save progress and reset stats.

Hour 5 (16:00-18:00): Evening Routine

Common Day 1 Failures & How to Avoid Them

**Symptoms:**
- Choke not pulled
- Battery too weak
- No fuel
- Flooded engine

**Solution:**
- Always pull choke first
- Use block heater consistently
- Check fuel gauge
- Wait 30 seconds between crank attempts

Failure 1: Engine Won't Start

**Symptoms:**
- Don't know where PSK is
- Can't find Futufon office
- Wrong turns in darkness

**Solution:**
- Pay attention to road signs
- Use map (key: M)
- Follow other traffic
- Slow down in unfamiliar areas

Failure 2: Get Lost

**Symptoms:**
- Spent too much on beer/food
- Can't afford fuel
- Can't afford Classifieds

**Solution:**
- Prioritize essential purchases
- Fuel > Classifieds > Food > Luxuries
- Don't buy unnecessary items
- Remember: you have 2,100 mk starting

Failure 3: Run Out of Money

**Symptoms:**
- Body Temp bar turns pink
- Drains completely
- Character dies

**Solution:**
- Stay in heated spaces
- Keep car running if stranded
- Run between buildings
- Use alcohol as emergency warmth
- Drive to safety immediately

Failure 4: Freeze to Death

**Symptoms:**
- Won't start after shutdown
- Dies while driving
- Strange noises/vibrations

**Solution:**
- Check all fluids
- Use block heater religiously
- Gentle driving
- Listen for warning sounds
- Stop immediately if something feels wrong

Failure 5: Car Breaks Down

Advanced Strategies

**Day 1 Budget Allocation:**
- Fuel: 250 mk
- Classifieds: 20 mk
- Food: 50 mk
- Beer: 140 mk
- Emergency: 100 mk
- **Remaining: ~1,540 mk**

**Revenue Streams:**
1. **Futufon Job**: 1,500-2,000 mk/day
2. **Side Jobs**: Sewage delivery, firewood
3. **Selling Parts**: Hoard spares, sell duplicates

Economic Optimization

**Optimal Sequence:**
1. Morning: Get to PSK quickly
2. Late Morning: Shopping, eating
3. Afternoon: Job application
4. Evening: Planning, save game

**Time Savers:**
- Keep car running while shopping
- Run between buildings (saves time)
- Prepare meals in advance
- Use phone at PSK (avoid payphone costs)

Time Management

**Backup Plans:**
- If Classifieds don't have project car, wait
- If job interview fails, try again tomorrow
- If car breaks down, call for tow
- If you crash, stay calm and assess

**Emergency Supplies:**
- Keep extra food in apartment
- Spare headlight bulbs in car
- Tow rope or cable
- First aid kit
- Warm clothing

Risk Mitigation

**Q: Can I skip the Futufon job?**
A: Technically yes, but you'll have no income. Side jobs exist but are less reliable.

**Q: What if I die on Day 1?**
A: Permadeath is active. Save before major risks. Consider using console commands to recover (disables achievements).

**Q: How do I get a tow vehicle?**
A: Rent from gas station, borrow from friend, or call service. Factor into Day 2 budget.

**Q: Should I buy winter tires immediately?**
A: Yes if you can afford them. Survival depends on traction.

**Q: Can I play without buying the project car?**
A: You can, but it's the core gameplay loop. The game revolves around assembly and tuning.

**Q: What if I run out of heating oil?**
A: You'll freeze. Buy heating oil at PSK or risk death.

**Q: How do I make the Classifieds refresh?**
A: Time passes. Check every 2-3 days. New issues appear randomly.

**Q: Can I sell the Sorbett?**
A: Yes, but only after acquiring project car. Don't be carless!

Surviving Day 1 in My Winter Car requires preparation, patience, and prudent decision-making. The golden path outlined here has been tested by experienced players and provides the optimal route to stability.

**Key Takeaways:**
1. **Prioritize** - Fuel, Classifieds, Job, then luxury items
2. **Plan Ahead** - Day 1 sets up your entire playthrough
3. **Stay Warm** - Body Temperature is life
4. **Drive Safely** - One crash can end your run
5. **Be Patient** - Rushing causes mistakes

The first 24 hours are challenging, but mastering them unlocks the deeper satisfaction of My Winter Car. With steady income from Futufon and the project car located, you can begin the real game: restoration, tuning, and winter driving mastery.

Remember: every expert player was once a beginner, struggling with the choke and fearing the dark roads. Follow this guide, learn from mistakes, and soon you'll be teaching others how to survive their first winter in Alivieska.

---

**Good luck, and may your block heater never trip the breaker!**

*For video walkthroughs and community strategies, visit the My Winter Car forums.*

Strategy Guides

"Day 1 Survival Guide - First 24 Hours"