Winter Driving Tips: Prepare Your Vehicle

Did you know that about 24% of weather-related crashes occur on snowy, slushy, or icy roads? As temperatures drop, the likelihood of accidents rises significantly. Preparing your vehicle for winter is crucial to ensure your safety and that of others on the road. This guide will help you get your car winter-ready by covering essential maintenance checks and safe driving techniques.

Key Steps to Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Driving

To drive safely in winter, focus on three main areas: preparing your vehicle, honing your driving skills, and preparing for emergencies. By following these steps, you can confidently navigate winter roads and minimize accident risks.

Quick Winter Vehicle Prep Checklist

• Battery: Check for corrosion and test its health.
• Tires: Ensure good tread depth (at least 3/16") and proper inflation.
• Fluids: Verify antifreeze and oil levels; consider using winter-grade oil.
• Wipers and Defroster: Replace streaky blades, and test both front and rear defrosters.
• Lights: Ensure all lights function properly and clean the lenses.
• Fuel: Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-ups and to ensure fuel is available if stranded.

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter

A properly maintained vehicle is crucial to navigating icy roads safely. Here are the essentials to check before the season’s first snowstorm hits:

• Battery Health: Cold weather reduces battery performance. If your battery is over three years old or shows signs of wear, consider replacing it. Clean the terminals to ensure a solid connection. In extremely cold climates, consider a battery warmer to help maintain optimal performance and prevent starting issues on frigid mornings.

• Tire Tread and Pressure: Ensure your tires have at least 3/16” tread depth for adequate traction, and check inflation regularly since cold temperatures can decrease tire pressure. In areas with heavy snow, winter tires are highly recommended for extra grip. Additionally, ensure that your tire pressure is at the recommended level, as low tire pressure can affect overall vehicle performance in winter conditions. Also, have your brakes inspected, as winter driving can reduce braking efficiency.

• Antifreeze and Fluids: Verify antifreeze levels and add the correct mix if needed. Switching to winter-grade oil and washer fluid also supports engine health and clear vision. Additionally, ensure your fuel tank is at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-up.

• Wipers, Heater, and Defrosters: Clear vision is key in winter. Replace worn-out wiper blades and confirm both front and rear defrosters work properly. Test your heater to ensure it keeps the cabin warm during freezing temperatures.

• Lights: Confirm all lights—headlights, brake lights, and turn signals—are functioning and clean the lenses to maximize visibility. Dirty or cloudy lenses reduce the reach of your lights, especially in low-visibility conditions common in winter. Pay attention to any dashboard warning lights that may indicate issues needing immediate attention before hitting the road.

• Undercarriage Cleaning: Road salt, used to de-ice roads, can corrode your vehicle's undercarriage. Washing it regularly, especially after snowstorms, helps prevent rust and prolongs the life of critical components. Consider applying an undercoat treatment to protect against salt damage if you live in a region with heavy snowfall.

Step 2: Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car

If you’re ever stranded in a snowstorm, an emergency kit can be a lifesaver. Make sure it includes:

• Blankets, water, and snacks: Non-perishable food items are ideal.
• Flashlight and extra batteries: Essential for nighttime or low-visibility conditions.
• First aid kit and necessary medications: For minor injuries or medical needs.
• Sand or kitty litter for tire traction: Useful for gaining traction on ice.
• Jumper cables and an ice scraper: Cold weather can drain the battery and freeze windows.
• Shovel and basic tools: In case you need to dig your car out.
• Phone Charger or Power Bank: Keep a portable phone charger or power bank in your kit for emergency communication if your vehicle’s battery fails.

Consider adding extra gloves, hand warmers, and a map of the area as well: These additional items can make a big difference if you’re stuck in cold conditions for an extended time.

Step 3: Adjust Your Driving Techniques

Winter driving requires extra caution and awareness. Follow these tips to minimize your risk of accidents:

• Slow Down: Icy roads need longer stopping distances, so adjust your speed to match road conditions and visibility.
• Increase Following Distance: Allow 5-6 seconds between your car and the one in front to give yourself more time to react to sudden stops.
• Avoid Sudden Movements: Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, or sharp turns, as these can lead to skids. Make slow, steady movements to maintain control. Practice driving in an empty parking lot to get a feel for how your vehicle handles on snow and ice—especially if it’s new.
• Use Low Beam Headlights: High beams can reflect off snow, making it harder to see. Use low beams in snowy or foggy conditions to avoid glare and improve visibility.
• Stay Alert for Black Ice: Black ice, a nearly invisible layer of ice on the road, is one of the most dangerous winter hazards. Look out for glossy patches on the road, especially in shaded areas, bridges, and intersections.

Step 4: Know What to Do if You’re Stranded

If you find yourself stuck in a snowstorm, remember these steps to stay safe:

• Signal for Help: Display a bright cloth on your antenna to signal distress and make your vehicle visible to passing cars.
• Run Your Engine for Warmth: Run the engine for 10 minutes per hour to stay warm, but crack a window slightly to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear of snow before doing so.
• Stay with Your Car: Your car provides shelter and is easier for rescuers to locate than if you were to venture out on foot in a snowstorm. Move to the back seat to stay away from cold windows and cover yourself with blankets.

Conclusion

By following these tips and preparing adequately for winter driving conditions, you'll be well-equipped to handle whatever winter weather brings. Safe travels!