Winter driving can be unpredictable, ice, snow, freezing temperatures and reduced visibility can all turn a simple trip into a dangerous situation. While you can’t control the weather, you can prepare your vehicle and adjust your driving habits to reduce the risk of breakdowns and crashes. A little preparation now can prevent costly emergencies later.
Here’s a complete guide to winterizing your vehicle, staying safe on the road, and understanding the winter-driving features built into modern cars.
Winterize Your Vehicle: Prevent Breakdowns Before They Happen
A well-maintained car is your strongest defense against winter hazards. Beyond routine annual maintenance, the following steps can help keep your vehicle reliable all season long.
Check Your Battery
Car batteries lose strength as temperatures drop. Have your battery tested at the start of the winter season — especially if it’s more than three years old — to ensure it can hold a charge in freezing conditions.
Inspect the Cooling System
Coolant doesn’t just keep your engine from overheating; it also prevents freezing in cold weather. Make sure your cooling system is functioning properly and the coolant mixture is correct for winter temperatures.
Choose the Right Tires
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Winter tires provide deeper, more flexible tread that grips snow and ice more effectively. If you live in a region with heavy snowfall, they’re worth the investment.
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If you rely on all-season tires, check the tread depth: anything less than 2/32 of an inch compromises traction. Replace worn tires before the first storm.
Monitor Tire Pressure
Cold air causes tire pressure to drop. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and grip on icy roads. Check pressure frequently throughout the winter.
Replace Wiper Blades
Slush, ice and snow can quickly impair visibility. Fresh wiper blades and wiper fluid rated for –30°F ensure your windshield stays clean and clear.
Keep the Gas Tank Half Full
A half tank reduces the chance of gas line freeze and ensures you have enough fuel to keep warm if you become stranded.
Restock Your Emergency Kit
Every winter vehicle should carry:
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Blankets or extra clothing
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Jumper cables
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Flashlight and batteries
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First aid kit
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Ice scraper
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High-energy snacks and bottled water
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Sand or kitty litter for traction
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Flares or reflective triangles
Being prepared can turn a breakdown from a crisis into a manageable inconvenience.
Before You Hit the Road: Prep Your Vehicle for Safe Driving
Modern vehicles rely on sensors and cameras to support assistive-driving features. Winter weather can easily block these systems.
Before driving:
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Clean external camera lenses and side mirrors
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Remove snow, ice and dirt from all sensors
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Warm up the vehicle if temperatures are extremely low
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NEVER run your car inside a garage, even with the door open — carbon monoxide can build up quickly
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If weather conditions look dangerous, delay travel if possible
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If you must go, share your travel plans and route with someone
How to Avoid a Winter Crash: Driving Tips from AAA
Even the best winter-prepped car needs a cautious driver. AAA recommends the following strategies for staying in control on snowy or icy roads:
Avoid Cruise Control
Cruise control can cause your wheels to spin dangerously on slick surfaces. Stay fully engaged at the wheel.
Steer Into a Skid
If your vehicle begins to slide:
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Stay calm
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Ease off the accelerator
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Steer gently in the direction you want the front of the car to go
Overcorrecting can make things worse, so smooth, deliberate movements are key.
Accelerate and Brake Slowly
Sudden movements can cause loss of traction. Gradual acceleration and gentle braking help maintain control.
Increase Following Distance
In winter conditions, leave 8–10 seconds of space between you and the vehicle ahead — far more than in dry conditions.
Don’t Stop When Going Uphill
Momentum is your friend. If you stop on an icy incline, you may not regain enough traction to move again.
If Visibility Disappears — Stop
In a whiteout, pull off the road to a safe location. Do not stop on the shoulder unless it’s an emergency — other drivers may not see you in time.
Understand Your Vehicle’s Built-In Winter Safety Features
Many drivers underestimate what modern cars can already do for them. MyCarDoesWhat.org, a national educational campaign, helps drivers understand their car’s automated safety systems.
Traction Control
Standard on most new vehicles, traction control helps prevent wheel spin on snowy, wet or icy surfaces. It’s especially useful:
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when accelerating from a stop
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when climbing slippery hills
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when regaining control during a skid
Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)
ABS prevents your wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing you to steer during an emergency stop.
When ABS activates, you may feel a pulsing sensation in the brake pedal — this is normal. Hold steady pressure and let the system work.
If You Become Stranded: Safety First
Breakdowns happen — even to well-maintained vehicles. If you’re stuck in an unfamiliar or remote area:
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Stay with your car — it provides shelter and is easier for rescuers to find
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Light flares in front of and behind the vehicle
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Ensure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow or mud to prevent carbon monoxide buildup
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Run the engine only intermittently to stay warm
Your safety is more important than your schedule. Prioritize warmth, visibility and communication until help arrives.
Final Thoughts: You Are Your Car’s Best Safety Feature
Winter roads demand preparation and vigilance. With a well-maintained vehicle, smart driving habits and an understanding of your car’s capabilities, you can confidently navigate whatever the season brings. Protect yourself, your passengers and everyone sharing the road by making winter safety a priority from the first frost to the final thaw.
