Winter Driving Tips

Driving safely in winter requires preparing your vehicle for freezing temperatures, adjusting your driving habits for snow and ice, and checking road conditions before traveling. Winter weather in Nebraska can create slippery highways, reduced visibility, snow-covered intersections, and hazardous driving conditions, especially during periods of freezing rain or blowing snow. Before heading out, drivers should inspect their tires, battery, brakes, heating system, and windshield wipers while keeping emergency supplies in their vehicles. At Sid Dillon, we help drivers in Omaha, Lincoln, Fremont, and surrounding Nebraska communities prepare for seasonal driving challenges. This guide covers essential winter driving tips, vehicle maintenance recommendations, safe braking techniques, and steps to take if your vehicle becomes stranded in severe weather.

How to Prepare Your Car for Winter Driving

Preparing your car for winter involves inspecting essential vehicle systems, checking tire condition and pressure, maintaining proper fluid levels, and confirming that heating and visibility equipment work correctly. Cold temperatures can reduce battery performance, lower tire pressure, and place additional demands on engine components. Completing preventive maintenance before severe weather arrives can help reduce the likelihood of breakdowns and improve your vehicle’s readiness for snow, ice, and freezing conditions.

Before temperatures drop, follow this winter car maintenance checklist. You can also review our detailed guide on how to winterize a car for additional information about preparing your vehicle for cold weather.

• Test the Battery and Charging System: Cold weather reduces battery performance while increasing the power required to start a gasoline or diesel engine. Have your battery tested, inspect the terminals for corrosion, and check the charging system. Replace a weak or failing battery when recommended by a qualified technician.
• Inspect Tires and Consider Winter Tires: Check your tires for adequate tread depth, uneven wear, and visible damage. Winter tires use specialized rubber compounds and tread designs that improve traction in cold temperatures, snow, and ice. All-season tires may be suitable for some driving conditions, but dedicated winter tires generally provide better traction in severe winter weather. Install a matching set of four winter tires when recommended for your vehicle.
• Check and Adjust Tire Pressure: Tire pressure decreases as outside temperatures fall, potentially affecting handling, traction, and tire wear. Check the pressure when the tires are cold and inflate them according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure, typically listed on the driver’s door-jamb label. Do not use the maximum pressure printed on the tire sidewall as your target. Learn more about how cold weather affects tire pressure.
• Inspect the Brake System: Have your brake pads, rotors, and other braking components inspected for wear or damage. Properly functioning brakes are essential, but even a well-maintained braking system requires greater stopping distance on slippery roads. Address unusual brake noises, vibrations, or warning lights before driving in winter conditions.
• Check Coolant Levels and Freeze Protection: Confirm that your vehicle has the correct coolant mixture and that the cooling system is free of leaks. Engine coolant helps regulate operating temperature and protects the system against freezing. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for coolant type, concentration, and replacement intervals.
• Change Engine Oil When Necessary: Follow your vehicle’s recommended oil-change schedule and use the oil viscosity specified in the owner’s manual. Cold temperatures affect how engine oil flows, making the correct oil grade particularly important during winter starts. If your vehicle is due for maintenance, consider scheduling an oil change before severe winter weather arrives.
• Test the Heating and Defrosting Systems: Verify that the cabin heater, front windshield defroster, and rear-window defogger operate correctly. These systems help maintain visibility by removing interior condensation and frost. Address problems before they interfere with your ability to see the road.
• Use Winter Windshield Washer Fluid: Fill the washer reservoir with fluid designed for freezing temperatures. Standard washer fluid may freeze in extremely cold conditions, making it difficult to remove salt, slush, and road debris. Choose a product with a freeze-protection rating appropriate for expected temperatures.
• Inspect Windshield Wipers and Exterior Lights: Replace worn wiper blades and check that the headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights function properly. Winter wiper blades may provide improved performance in snow and ice. Keep exterior lights clean so other drivers can see your vehicle.

In addition to routine maintenance, remove accumulated snow and ice from your windshield, windows, mirrors, headlights, taillights, hood, and roof before driving. Snow left on the roof can slide onto the windshield during braking or blow onto vehicles behind you. Make sure your vehicle’s cameras and driver-assistance sensors are also clear of snow, ice, and road debris. For additional peace of mind, consider scheduling a winter vehicle inspection at a Sid Dillon service center before the first major storm.

Essential Winter Driving Safety Tips for Snow and Ice

Safe winter driving requires reducing your speed, increasing following distance, making smooth steering and braking inputs, and responding carefully to changing road conditions. Snow and ice reduce the traction between your tires and the road, making it more difficult to accelerate, turn, and stop. Even vehicles equipped with all-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, antilock brakes, or electronic stability control can lose traction on slippery surfaces.

The following winter driving safety tips can help Nebraska drivers prepare for commuting, highway travel, and unexpected changes in weather.

Keep Your Gas Tank Filled or EV Battery Charged

Keeping your gas tank close to full during winter helps reduce the risk of running out of fuel during traffic delays, road closures, or unexpected stops. The Nebraska Department of Transportation recommends maintaining at least half a tank of fuel, although a nearly full tank provides an additional reserve before longer trips or severe weather. If your vehicle becomes stranded, having sufficient fuel may allow you to operate the heater intermittently while waiting for assistance.

Drivers of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) should begin winter trips with an appropriate battery charge and account for potential reductions in driving range. Cold temperatures can affect battery efficiency, while cabin heating and battery temperature management consume additional energy. Preconditioning an EV while it remains plugged in, when supported by the vehicle, can help warm the cabin and battery before departure. Plan charging stops carefully when traveling longer distances in freezing conditions.

Plan Your Route and Check Nebraska Road Conditions

Before driving during winter weather, check the forecast, review your route, and look for current road closures or travel advisories. Nebraska drivers can use the Nebraska 511 traveler information service to review reported highway conditions, traffic incidents, road restrictions, and available traffic camera information. The service is available online through Nebraska 511 or by dialing 511 within the state.

When traveling between Lincoln, Omaha, Fremont, or surrounding communities, consider the possibility of blowing snow, drifting, or icy highway sections. Review directions before leaving, allow additional travel time, and tell someone your planned route and estimated arrival time when taking a longer trip. If conditions become dangerous, postpone nonessential travel until roads improve. Avoid relying exclusively on GPS directions because navigation systems may not immediately reflect weather-related closures or unsafe conditions.

Reduce Your Speed and Increase Following Distance

Driving more slowly and leaving additional space between vehicles are two of the most important precautions for winter travel. Snow, slush, and ice reduce available tire traction and can substantially increase the distance needed to stop. Posted speed limits are established for favorable conditions and may be too fast when pavement becomes slippery or visibility decreases.

Increase your following distance well beyond what you would normally use on dry pavement, adjusting it to the severity of the conditions. Begin slowing down earlier when approaching intersections, stop signs, traffic lights, or curves. Avoid sudden acceleration, sharp steering movements, and abrupt braking, which can cause the tires to lose traction. When visibility becomes limited by heavy snowfall or blowing snow, reduce your speed further and find a safe place to stop if necessary.

Brake and Accelerate Smoothly on Slippery Roads

Gentle acceleration and controlled braking help maintain traction when driving on snowy or icy roads. Apply the accelerator gradually to reduce wheelspin, and begin braking earlier than usual. Keep steering movements smooth and avoid accelerating aggressively through turns. If the tires begin to lose grip, ease off the accelerator and make gradual steering corrections rather than reacting abruptly.

Most modern vehicles use an antilock braking system (ABS), which helps prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. If your vehicle has ABS and you need to make an emergency stop, apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal rather than pumping it. A pulsing sensation may occur when the system activates. Vehicles without ABS can require different braking techniques, so consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions. Remember that ABS helps preserve steering control during hard braking but cannot eliminate the longer stopping distances caused by slippery pavement.

Watch for Black Ice, Bridges, and Snow-Covered Roads

Black ice is a thin, often transparent layer of ice that can make pavement extremely slippery without appearing heavily snow-covered. It may resemble wet pavement and can be difficult to recognize, particularly during nighttime driving. Bridges, overpasses, shaded road sections, and untreated intersections deserve extra caution because they can freeze even when nearby pavement appears clear.

When temperatures approach or fall below freezing, anticipate possible icy patches and avoid sudden braking or steering movements. Reduce your speed before entering curves, crossing bridges, or approaching intersections. Rural Nebraska highways may also experience drifting and blowing snow that reduces visibility or covers previously cleared lanes. Do not drive through deep snowdrifts or road closures without confirming that the route is passable.

Give Snowplows and Emergency Vehicles Plenty of Space

Snowplows need additional room to operate because they may travel at reduced speeds, make wide turns, spread treatment materials, and extend equipment beyond the vehicle’s body. Avoid following directly behind a snowplow or driving beside it for extended periods. Snow thrown by the plow can also temporarily reduce your visibility.

Stay well behind snow-removal equipment and avoid passing unless it is clearly safe and legally permitted. Be especially careful when approaching a plow that is turning, changing lanes, or operating near an intersection. Follow posted restrictions and instructions from road crews or emergency personnel during winter storms.

What Should You Keep in a Winter Car Emergency Kit?

A winter car emergency kit should contain supplies for removing snow, improving tire traction, staying warm, communicating with emergency services, and managing unexpected roadside delays. Keeping these items in your vehicle is particularly important when traveling on rural Nebraska highways, where weather conditions can change quickly and assistance may take longer to arrive.

Prepare a winter survival kit before the season begins and check the supplies periodically to ensure everything remains in usable condition.

• Snow Shovel, Broom, and Ice Scraper: Carry a compact shovel for removing accumulated snow around your tires and an ice scraper or snow brush for clearing windows, lights, and mirrors.
• Sand or Non-Clumping Kitty Litter: Abrasive materials can help improve tire traction when a vehicle becomes stuck on a slippery surface. Use them carefully around the drive wheels when conditions allow.
• Jumper Cables or a Portable Jump Starter: These supplies may help restart a vehicle with a discharged 12-volt battery. Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions and appropriate safety procedures before attempting a jump-start.
• Flashlight and Emergency Warning Devices: Keep a flashlight with spare batteries and reflective warning triangles or other appropriate visibility equipment. Use warning devices only when they can be placed safely and without exposing yourself to traffic.
• Warm Blankets and Extra Clothing: Pack insulated blankets, winter gloves, hats, socks, and additional layers to help retain body heat if your vehicle becomes stranded or loses cabin heating.
• Cell Phone and Charging Equipment: Carry a charging cable, compatible vehicle charger, and fully charged portable power bank. A working phone helps you contact roadside assistance or emergency services.
• Water and Nonperishable Food: Store drinking water and shelf-stable snacks such as energy bars or nuts. Check supplies regularly, since water may freeze and certain foods can deteriorate with temperature changes.
• First Aid Kit and Necessary Medication: Include basic first aid supplies and any essential personal medications needed during an unexpected delay. Store medications according to their temperature requirements.
• Road Map and Emergency Contact Information: A paper map or downloaded offline navigation information can be helpful where cell service is unreliable. Keep emergency contact details accessible.

Store your emergency supplies where they are accessible if the cargo area becomes difficult to reach. Before longer winter trips, make sure passengers have appropriate clothing and that your vehicle has sufficient fuel or battery charge. A well-stocked emergency kit cannot prevent every roadside problem, but it can help you manage an unexpected delay while arranging assistance.

What Should You Do If Your Car Gets Stuck in Snow?

If your car becomes stuck in snow, avoid spinning the tires aggressively because this can dig the vehicle deeper and reduce available traction. First, assess whether it is safe to attempt moving the vehicle. If you are stuck near moving traffic, in a dangerous location, or during a severe winter storm, prioritize your safety and contact roadside assistance or emergency services when appropriate.

If conditions are safe and the vehicle is not severely trapped, the following steps may help you regain traction:

1. Check Your Surroundings: Determine whether the vehicle is safely positioned and whether nearby traffic, deep snow, or icy terrain creates additional hazards. Do not attempt recovery if doing so would place you or your passengers at risk.
2. Clear Snow Around the Tires: Use a shovel to remove snow from the drive wheels and the intended path of travel. Check for packed snow beneath the vehicle that may prevent it from moving.
3. Use Traction Materials: Place sand or non-clumping kitty litter near the drive tires to help improve traction. Make sure no one is standing near the tires when you attempt to move.
4. Accelerate Gently: Apply light accelerator pressure and avoid excessive wheelspin. Consult your owner’s manual for vehicle-specific guidance on traction control, snow driving modes, or recommended recovery techniques.
5. Request Assistance if Necessary: If the vehicle cannot move without repeated wheelspin or aggressive acceleration, stop attempting to free it and arrange professional roadside assistance. Avoid unsafe towing or recovery methods that could damage the vehicle or injure someone.

If you become stranded during a winter storm, remain with your vehicle when it is safer than attempting to reach shelter. Turn on your hazard lights and contact emergency services if you are in immediate danger. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow before operating a gasoline or diesel engine, and run the engine only intermittently as needed for heat while providing ventilation to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Never run the engine in an enclosed space. Make your vehicle visible to rescuers and conserve your phone battery while waiting for assistance.

Schedule Winter Vehicle Maintenance at Sid Dillon

Preparing your vehicle before winter weather arrives can help improve reliability, visibility, and handling during Nebraska’s colder months. At Sid Dillon, our service centers can assist with seasonal maintenance needs, including battery inspections, tire evaluations, brake service, oil changes, fluid checks, and other vehicle maintenance. Addressing potential concerns before temperatures fall can reduce the likelihood of encountering avoidable vehicle problems during a winter commute or road trip.

Drivers near Lincoln, Omaha, Fremont, Blair, Crete, Wahoo, and surrounding communities can explore available service options at Sid Dillon dealership locations. Before scheduling, review your vehicle’s recommended maintenance intervals and note any concerns involving difficult starts, uneven tire wear, braking performance, heating, or windshield visibility.

Visit our Sid Dillon service centers to explore maintenance services and appointment options, or browse our Sid Dillon locations to find a dealership convenient to you. If you are considering a vehicle with available all-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, or other features suited to changing road conditions, you can also explore our new vehicle inventory. Remember that drivetrain capability and driver-assistance technology do not replace the need for appropriate tires, cautious driving, and careful trip planning in winter weather.