Driving in Freezing Weather: Essential Dos and Don’ts

January 21, 2025

Sub-freezing temperatures bring unique challenges for vehicle owners, from starting issues to icy roads. Proper car care and safe driving habits can help you stay safe and avoid unnecessary headaches. Here’s a guide to the dos and don’ts of using a vehicle in weather below 32°F.

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Dos

1. Warm Up Your Engine Safely
   • Allow your vehicle to idle for a few minutes to warm up the engine oil, especially in extreme cold. This helps ensure proper lubrication before driving.
2. Check Your Battery
   • Cold weather reduces battery efficiency. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and consider testing the battery’s charge to ensure it’s ready for the cold.
3. Use Winter-Grade Fluids
   • Refill with winter-grade windshield washer fluid and antifreeze to prevent freezing. Check your coolant levels to ensure the engine doesn’t overheat or freeze.
4. Monitor Tire Pressure
   • Tire pressure drops in cold weather. Use a gauge to ensure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI to maintain traction and fuel efficiency.
5. Keep Your Gas Tank at Least Half Full
   • Prevent condensation from forming inside the gas tank, which can freeze and cause issues in the fuel lines.
6. Clear Snow and Ice Completely
   • Remove snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, and lights before driving to ensure full visibility. Don’t forget the roof to avoid snow falling onto your windshield or another vehicle.
7. Carry Emergency Supplies
   • Include essentials like a flashlight, blankets, jumper cables, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, and water. These items can be lifesavers in case of breakdowns or emergencies.

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Don’ts

1. Don’t Pour Hot Water on the Windshield
   • It may be tempting to speed up the defrosting process, but sudden temperature changes can crack the glass. Use a scraper and let the defroster work instead.
2. Don’t Rev the Engine Immediately
   • Avoid pressing the accelerator hard when starting the car. Let the engine warm up gradually to prevent damage to internal components.
3. Don’t Ignore Warning Lights
   • If your vehicle’s dashboard displays alerts like low tire pressure or a battery warning, address them promptly. Cold weather can exacerbate underlying issues.
4. Don’t Drive Aggressively
   • Accelerate and brake gently to maintain control on potentially icy or slick roads. Sudden movements increase the risk of skidding.
5. Don’t Use Cruise Control on Slippery Roads
   • Cruise control can cause your car to accelerate unexpectedly on icy patches, reducing your ability to react.
6. Don’t Leave Wipers Up Overnight
   • While it might seem like a good idea to prevent them from freezing to the windshield, wipers left up are more prone to bending or snapping in strong winds. Instead, use a cover or de-icer.
7. Don’t Forget to Check Your Exhaust Pipe
   • Before starting your car, ensure the exhaust pipe isn’t blocked by snow or ice, which can cause dangerous carbon monoxide buildup inside the vehicle.

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Additional Tips for Driving in Cold Weather

• Plan Your Route: Stick to main roads that are more likely to be plowed and salted.
• Drive Slowly: Adjust your speed to match road conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster.
• Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and road conditions before heading out.

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By following these dos and don’ts, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and stay safe during freezing weather. Always prepare for the unexpected, and prioritize safety over speed when driving in sub-32°F conditions.