Winter Car Prep: 6 Simple Steps for Cold-Weather Driving

Cold mornings, ice on the glass, and salty roads are tough on your car. A few simple steps now can save time on frozen mornings and help prevent bigger problems later.

1. Protect your windshield from frost

Scraping ice every morning is no fun. A windshield snow and frost cover goes on in the evening and comes off in the morning, taking most of the ice and snow with it.

2. Fix small chips before they spread

Cold temperatures and warm defrosters put stress on glass, and a small chip can quickly become a long crack. A windshield crack repair kit can repair minor chips early. For larger damage, see a glass professional.

3. Check tire pressure more often

Air contracts in the cold, so tire pressure drops as temperatures fall. Check your tires regularly through the winter, and keep a portable tire inflator in the car for quick top-ups. A TPMS monitor can alert you to low pressure while you drive.

4. Keep the cabin clean

Snow, salt, and mud get tracked inside all winter long. Regular clean-ups with a cordless car vacuum help protect your floor mats and carpets.

5. Pack a winter emergency kit

Keep a blanket, gloves, a flashlight, an ice scraper, snacks, and a phone charger in your car. A trunk organizer keeps it all together and easy to reach.

6. Light up dark winter evenings

Shorter days mean more driving in the dark. A USB car gesture light adds soft interior lighting that makes it easier to find things inside the car.

Stay safe this winter

Before any trip in bad weather, check the forecast, give yourself extra time, and let someone know your route.