Winter tips from Sid Dillon

Preparing your car for winter means checking its battery, tires, antifreeze, windshield wipers, and other systems before freezing temperatures and hazardous road conditions arrive. Nebraska winters can bring snow, freezing rain, strong winds, and sudden temperature changes that affect both vehicle performance and road safety. A few preventative maintenance steps can reduce the risk of breakdowns, improve visibility, and help your vehicle handle challenging conditions. Sid Dillon shares practical winter car maintenance tips, driving recommendations, and emergency preparation advice for drivers throughout Lincoln, Fremont, Omaha, and surrounding Nebraska communities.

Winter Car Maintenance Checklist: 6 Essential Steps

A winter vehicle inspection should focus on the systems most affected by freezing temperatures, including the battery, cooling system, tires, and windshield cleaning equipment. Checking these components before the first major winter storm gives you time to address problems that could otherwise leave you stranded or make driving more difficult.

1. Check Your Antifreeze and Engine Coolant

Engine coolant helps prevent freezing inside your vehicle’s cooling system while also protecting the engine against overheating and corrosion. Before winter, verify that your coolant is at the proper level, provides adequate freeze protection, and meets your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.

Although many vehicles use a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water, the correct concentration and coolant type depend on the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some vehicles use different coolant formulations or require specific mixtures for extremely cold conditions. Adding an incompatible coolant can create problems within the cooling system.

• Check coolant levels: Inspect the coolant reservoir only when the engine is cool and verify that the level is within the indicated range.
• Test freeze protection: A coolant tester can help determine whether the existing mixture provides sufficient protection against freezing temperatures.
• Inspect for leaks: Look for coolant residue, puddles beneath the vehicle, or damaged hoses that could indicate a cooling system problem.
• Follow the maintenance schedule: Coolant does not necessarily need to be flushed every winter. Replace it according to the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations or when testing identifies a problem.

If you are unsure about your vehicle’s coolant condition or maintenance history, a technician at a Sid Dillon service location can inspect the cooling system and recommend service when necessary.

2. Inspect Windshield Wipers and Use Winter Washer Fluid

Winter windshield washer fluid and properly functioning wiper blades help maintain visibility when snow, slush, and road salt accumulate on your windshield. Standard washer fluid may freeze in extremely cold temperatures, so choose a winter-rated formula appropriate for the conditions you expect to encounter.

Before winter driving, inspect your windshield wipers for cracked rubber, uneven contact, or streaking. Wiper blades commonly need replacement every six to twelve months, although actual service life depends on weather exposure, usage, and blade condition.

• Choose the correct washer fluid: Look for a winter formula with a freeze-protection rating below the lowest temperatures you expect to encounter.
• Replace damaged blades: Wipers that chatter, leave streaks, or fail to clear sections of glass should be replaced.
• Check washer nozzles: Confirm that washer fluid reaches the windshield and is distributed effectively.
• Test your defrosters: Make sure the front and rear defrosters work properly before freezing weather arrives.
• Remove ice before operating the wipers: Use an ice scraper to clear frozen buildup rather than forcing the wiper motor to move blades stuck to the glass.

Road treatment materials can create a dirty film on windshields even when snowfall is light. Keeping extra winter washer fluid in your vehicle can be especially helpful during longer highway trips.

3. Test Your Car Battery Before Freezing Temperatures

Cold temperatures reduce a car battery’s available starting power while increasing the energy needed to start a gasoline or diesel engine. A battery that operates normally in mild weather may struggle during a Nebraska cold snap, particularly if it is aging or already weakened.

Car batteries commonly last approximately three to five years, although lifespan varies with driving habits, climate, battery design, and vehicle electrical demands. If your battery is approaching that age range, have it tested before winter rather than waiting for a starting problem.

Common warning signs of a weak battery include:

• Slow engine cranking: The engine turns over more slowly than usual when starting.
• Repeated jump-starts: The vehicle has needed assistance starting, especially after sitting overnight.
• Electrical irregularities: Certain vehicle electronics may behave unexpectedly when battery voltage is low.
• Visible corrosion: Corrosion around battery terminals can interfere with electrical connections.
• Battery age: A battery that is several years old deserves closer attention before extended periods of freezing weather.

A battery inspection should include the battery’s condition, terminal connections, and charging system. Visit a Sid Dillon service location if you notice starting difficulties or want your battery tested before winter.

4. Check Tire Pressure, Tread Depth, and Winter Traction

Proper tire inflation and adequate tread depth are essential for maintaining traction on cold, wet, snowy, and icy roads. As outside temperatures fall, tire pressure generally decreases by approximately one PSI for every 10-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature.

For example, a tire inflated to 35 PSI at 60 degrees Fahrenheit may measure approximately 32 PSI after the temperature drops to 30 degrees, assuming other conditions remain similar. This is why tire pressure warnings often appear during the first significant cold snap.

Use the recommended cold tire pressure listed on the driver’s door-jamb label or in your owner’s manual, not the maximum pressure printed on the tire sidewall.

• Check tire pressure monthly: Measure pressure before driving or after the tires have been stationary for at least three hours. Inspect the spare tire if your vehicle has one.
• Measure tread depth: Tires must have sufficient tread to channel water and maintain traction. While 2/32 inch is a common minimum replacement threshold, winter performance can deteriorate well before reaching it.
• Consider replacing tires below 4/32 inch: Tires with less than 4/32 inch of tread can have reduced traction on wet and snowy roads, making replacement worth considering before winter.
• Inspect for uneven wear: Uneven tread wear, cracks, bulges, or other visible damage may indicate tire or suspension problems requiring attention.
• Consider dedicated winter tires: Winter tires use specialized tread patterns and rubber compounds designed to maintain better traction in cold and snowy conditions than many conventional all-season tires.

All-wheel drive and four-wheel drive can improve acceleration in some slippery conditions, but neither system eliminates the need for appropriate tires. They do not automatically shorten braking distances on ice. For Nebraska drivers who frequently travel rural highways or encounter unplowed roads, tire selection can make a substantial difference in winter driving confidence.

If you are uncertain about tire condition, a Sid Dillon service location can help evaluate tread wear, tire pressure, and potential replacement needs.

5. Keep Enough Fuel or Battery Charge for Unexpected Delays

Maintaining an adequate fuel level during winter gives you a reserve if traffic delays, road closures, or unexpected weather conditions extend your trip. Keeping a gasoline vehicle’s fuel tank at least half full is a practical precaution, especially before highway travel or an approaching winter storm.

The primary benefit is having enough fuel available if you become stranded or need to take a longer route. Maintaining adequate fuel also reduces the chance of running out while waiting for assistance.

Drivers of electric vehicles should plan around reduced cold-weather driving range. Low temperatures can increase energy consumption because the vehicle must heat the cabin and may need energy to warm its battery. Consider the following:

• Gasoline and diesel vehicles: Refuel before long trips and avoid letting the tank become nearly empty during severe weather.
• Electric vehicles: Check available range before departure and plan charging stops with additional reserve for cold-weather conditions.
• Plug-in vehicles: Precondition the cabin while connected to a charger when supported by the vehicle to help conserve driving range.
• All vehicles: Account for potential delays caused by snowplows, reduced speed limits, road closures, and changing weather.

Fuel and charging reserves are particularly important when traveling across rural Nebraska, where services and charging opportunities may be farther apart.

6. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit for Your Vehicle

A winter emergency kit provides essential supplies if your vehicle becomes disabled, gets stuck in snow, or remains stopped for an extended period during freezing weather. Keeping these items in your vehicle throughout the winter can make an unexpected roadside situation easier and safer to manage.

Recommended winter emergency supplies include:

• Warm clothing and blankets: Pack gloves, hats, an extra coat, and insulated blankets for passengers.
• Ice scraper and snow brush: Keep tools for clearing windows, mirrors, lights, and exterior surfaces.
• Small snow shovel: A compact shovel can help remove snow around tires or the exhaust outlet.
• Traction material: Sand or non-clumping cat litter may provide temporary traction when tires are spinning on packed snow or ice.
• Flashlight and batteries: Carry a reliable flashlight for nighttime emergencies.
• Jumper cables or a portable jump starter: Choose equipment compatible with your vehicle and follow its instructions.
• First-aid supplies: Include a basic first-aid kit and necessary personal medications.
• Drinking water and nonperishable snacks: Store supplies suitable for possible delays and periodically inspect them.
• Phone charger: Keep a compatible vehicle charger or charged portable power bank available.
• Warning devices: Reflective warning triangles or other appropriate markers can improve vehicle visibility when safely deployed.

Before longer winter trips, check that your supplies are accessible and in usable condition. An emergency kit is especially valuable for rural travel, where severe weather and distance may delay roadside assistance.

How Should You Drive Safely on Snow and Ice?

Safe winter driving requires slower speeds, greater following distances, and smooth steering, acceleration, and braking. Snow and ice reduce tire grip, which means your vehicle may need considerably more distance to stop than it would on dry pavement.

These techniques can help reduce the risk of losing control:

• Increase following distance: Allow substantially more room than usual between your vehicle and the one ahead. Adjust spacing based on speed, visibility, and available traction.
• Accelerate gradually: Apply throttle smoothly to reduce unnecessary wheelspin, particularly when starting on slippery surfaces.
• Brake early and gently: Begin slowing down well before intersections, curves, or stopped traffic. If your vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), maintain firm, steady pedal pressure during emergency braking rather than pumping the brakes.
• Avoid abrupt steering: Make gradual steering adjustments to help preserve available tire traction.
• Watch for black ice: Bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and untreated roads may develop icy patches even when nearby pavement looks clear.
• Give snowplows room: Avoid traveling directly beside snowplows and maintain adequate distance behind them, where blowing snow may reduce visibility.
• Clear the entire vehicle: Remove snow and ice from windows, mirrors, headlights, taillights, the hood, and roof before driving.

Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive do not eliminate the need for cautious driving. These systems can help distribute power to the wheels, but braking and cornering still depend heavily on tire traction and road conditions.

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

If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, avoid repeatedly spinning the tires because excessive wheelspin can dig them deeper into the snow and may damage vehicle components. First, evaluate whether the vehicle can be moved safely or whether roadside assistance is necessary.

1. Assess your surroundings: If you are near moving traffic or in another dangerous location, prioritize personal safety and contact emergency services when appropriate.
2. Clear snow around the tires: Use a small shovel to remove packed snow from the driving wheels and their intended path.
3. Check the exhaust outlet: Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow before operating the engine.
4. Use traction material: Place sand or another suitable traction aid near the drive tires if it is safe to do so.
5. Apply gentle acceleration: Follow your vehicle owner’s manual for any recommended traction-control or snow-mode settings. Avoid excessive wheelspin.
6. Request assistance if necessary: If the vehicle remains stuck, contact roadside assistance rather than risking damage or attempting an unsafe recovery.

If your vehicle becomes disabled during severe winter weather, remaining with it is often safer than walking long distances through snow or extreme cold, provided the location itself is safe. Contact emergency services if there is immediate danger or a medical emergency.

To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, keep the exhaust outlet completely clear of snow and only run the engine intermittently when conditions permit. Never operate a vehicle in an enclosed space, and do not assume that a partially blocked exhaust is safe. Follow emergency responder instructions if assistance is on the way.

How to Prepare for a Winter Road Trip in Nebraska

Before driving long distances in Nebraska during winter, check road conditions, review the weather forecast, and prepare for possible delays or changing visibility. Open highways can experience blowing snow, drifting, and icy pavement even when roads within Lincoln, Fremont, or Omaha appear relatively clear.

Take these precautions before leaving:

• Review road conditions: Check Nebraska 511 for reported road conditions, closures, and travel advisories before departure.
• Check the forecast along your route: Weather may differ considerably between your starting location and destination.
• Share your travel plans: Let someone know your expected route and approximate arrival time, particularly when traveling through rural areas.
• Inspect vehicle essentials: Check tire pressure, washer fluid, exterior lights, and available fuel or battery charge.
• Allow extra travel time: Plan for reduced speeds, snow removal operations, and possible detours.
• Know when to postpone: If travel advisories indicate dangerous conditions, delaying a nonessential trip may be the safest option.

Wind-driven snow can quickly reduce visibility on exposed roads and create drifting across lanes. If visibility becomes severely limited, seek a safe location away from moving traffic rather than continuing at a speed that exceeds what you can safely see and react to.

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter at Sid Dillon

Winter vehicle preparation involves more than checking the weather before leaving home. Battery testing, proper tire maintenance, cooling system inspections, and reliable windshield cleaning equipment can help prevent avoidable problems when temperatures drop. Sid Dillon helps Nebraska drivers prepare for winter driving with vehicle inspections, maintenance recommendations, and service support. Visit a Sid Dillon service center to discuss your vehicle’s condition, or contact our team with questions about preparing your vehicle for the winter season.