Winter Car Prep: 5 Essential Articles

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Daniel Gray

September 28, 2022

Daniel Gray

September 28, 2022

Old Man Winter is notoriously unpredictable. So it's always best to get prepared before he rolls into town—not after there’s a half-foot of snow on the ground. Shop for that snow shovel before the first flakes fly and address all of those winter vehicle mechanical issues. The time to get prepare your car for winter driving season is now.

Here are five articles that cover the most critical topics for winter vehicle preparation.

Why Buy Winter Tires

winter tires, a common winter car preparation

If you own a late-model sports car, it probably came equipped with summer tires for optimum high-speed performance. Unfortunately, when the temperature drops below 40 degrees, the tires stiffen and lose traction. But when the mercury drops, you'll be happy and safe with a set of winter tires.

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How to Equip Your Tires for Snow and Ice

Prepare your car for winter by equipping your tires for ice and snow.

Do you drive on roads that get hit by snow and ice? If so, it’s a must to keep snow chains or a similar traction device in your vehicle. It's the law in many cold-weather states—especially for treks in the mountains. You have options—ranging from a variety of snow chains and cables to socks and Spikes Spiders. Each one is optimized for specific road conditions and vehicles.

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Best Rims and Tires for Every Season

It’s time to get hip to the ultimate gearhead seasonal trick: Have two complete sets of mounted wheel-tire combos. Having one full set for summer style and another for winter survival is the ultimate efficient winter car prep hack. With two sets of wheels and tires, the changing your tires between winter and summer is quick and easy.

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Winter Vehicle Prep: Emergency Kits

Winter Car Prep: Safety Kits — Many vendors on eBay motors have complete made-to-order emergency kits assembled for drivers.

When is the right time to assemble a complete winter emergency kit to store in your trunk, hatch, or truck bed? The answer is easy: Now. eBay Motors offers complete wintertime emergency kits, or you can craft your own. Read this article to ensure you're not missing that one item that stands between safety and peril. Jumpstart boxes, gloves, blankets, chains, traction aids, ice scrapers…the list goes on. (You need more than a candy bar in the glovebox to brave the cold.)

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Winter Vehicle Prep: Eight Steps to Get Ready

Winter Car Prep: A good winter emergency kit includes items like a traction mat. — A good winter emergency kit includes items like a traction mat.

Still not sure where to start with winter vehicle prep? Fear not. Following this handy checklist - opens in new window or tab. will ensure maximum safety and performance during the coldest winter months. Taking care of problems before Thanksgiving is the best.

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While winter weather brings joy to kids across the land, the same can't be said for frozen roadways and blinding snow. That said, many of us need to keep the wheels moving throughout the year. Being adequately prepared allows that to happen with peace of mind.

About the author

Daniel Gray

Daniel Gray is a best-selling tech author, trail-blazing blogger, recovering road-test editor, OG automotive YouTuber, and semi-retired delivery driver. His latest project, “The Last Mile Is the Front Line,” explores the over-hyped promises and unseen challenges of grocery delivery, where sustainability is paramount.

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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.