Winter Driving Tips: How to Stay Safe and Prepare Your Car for Cold Weather
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Automotive
Winter driving can be treacherous, but proper preparation and mindful driving can significantly reduce risks. Here's a detailed guide to help you navigate the cold months safely.
How to Prepare Your Car for Winter
Battery Maintenance - Cold weather reduces battery cranking power. - Test your battery at a service station. - Replace old or weak batteries before they fail. - Learn how to jump-start your car.
Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid - Replace wiper blades yearly or every six months in tough climates. - Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid to prevent freezing.
Lubricate Door Locks - Use silicone lubricant to prevent locks from freezing.
Check Oil and Coolant - Use multi-viscosity oil with a "W" (e.g., 5W-30) for cold weather. - Maintain a 50/50 antifreeze-to-water ratio in your coolant (adjust for extreme cold).
Tires - Inspect tire tread and consider replacing worn tires. - Use all-season tires for mild snow or winter-grade tires for frequent icy conditions. - Keep tires properly inflated as pressure drops in cold weather.
Roadside Emergency Kit - Essentials: gloves, blanket, portable shovel, ice scraper, flashlight, flares, first aid kit, and jumper cables. - Bonus: bag of sand for traction and portable jump starter.
Gas Tank and Fuel Line - Keep the tank at least half full to prevent condensation and to ensure fuel availability during emergencies.
Clean the Car - Remove snow and ice from the roof, hood, and lights. - Ensure visibility and avoid fines in states requiring snow clearance.
Winter Considerations for EVs
Preconditioning - Heat the battery and cabin while charging to conserve energy.
Charge Management - Raise your charging limit above 80% for extra range in cold conditions.
Heaters and Eco Mode - Use seat and steering wheel heaters to reduce HVAC use. - Drive in "Eco" mode to save battery.
Protect the Charging Plug - Use a plug protector to prevent freezing in outdoor charging setups.
How to Drive Safely in Winter Conditions
Plan Ahead - Check the weather and avoid dangerous routes or unnecessary trips.
Accelerate and Brake Slowly - Start in second gear if possible to reduce wheel spin. - Brake gently and maintain longer distances between cars.
Steer Smoothly - Avoid sudden turns. If sliding, steer into the skid gently.
All-Wheel Drive Caution - AWD improves acceleration but doesn’t assist with braking or cornering.
Be Vigilant About Other Drivers - Leave extra space and signal clearly. Avoid passing snowplows.
What to Do If You Get Stuck in Snow
Shovel a Path - Use a shovel or your car’s floor mats to create traction.
Rock the Car - Shift between Drive and Reverse with light throttle to gain momentum.
Avoid Spinning Wheels - Use sand, cat litter, or twigs under tires for grip.
By following these tips, you can face winter roads with confidence and stay safe throughout the season!
