The winter season is a busy time for many. There are several Christmas presents to buy and holiday parties to attend. However, before you get swept up in the rush of holiday shopping, you might want to check whether your vehicle is equipped to handle the slippery snowy roads you may encounter. Better yet, why don’t you include some of these auto essentials in your shopping list, so you can turn your daily driver into a winter-ready car?
Jump Starter
Nothing ruins a winter morning faster than turning the key and hearing nothing but a faint click. Low temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside your battery, making no-start situations more common when it’s cold out. A portable jump starter lets you bring your own power source wherever you go, so you don’t have to rely on another vehicle for a jump. Many modern units also come with built-in flashlights and USB ports, which can be a lifesaver if you’re stuck on a dark, snowy roadside.
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Tire Pressure Gauge
When the temperature drops, so does your tire pressure. For every 10°F decrease in temperature, your tires can lose about 1 PSI, which can affect traction, fuel economy, and overall handling on icy roads. Keeping a tire pressure gaugein your glove box makes it easy to check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended level. Properly inflated tires help maintain better contact with the road, giving you more control when driving on snow and slush.
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Sun Shade
A sun shade isn’t just for summer road trips. In the winter, it can act as a barrier between your windshield and frost, helping reduce the amount of ice that forms on the glass overnight. This means less time scraping and more time warming up your engine before you head out. Using a sun shade can also help protect your dashboard and interior materials from the harsh glare of low winter sun, which can still cause fading over time.
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Dash Camera
Snow, sleet, and early sunsets can all make winter driving more unpredictable. A dash camera records what happens on the road, giving you valuable evidence in case of an accident or a near-miss in slick conditions. It can also provide peace of mind if you regularly drive in heavy traffic or park on the street during snowstorms. Some dash cams even offer night vision and parking mode, which can be especially useful during long, dark winter nights.
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LED Light Bar
If you frequently drive on dimly lit back roads or in rural areas during winter, an LED light bar can greatly improve visibility. Snowstorms, fog, and early nightfall can make it hard to see what’s ahead using only your standard headlights. A high-quality LED light bar provides a brighter, wider field of view to help you better spot obstacles, wildlife, or icy patches on the road. Just make sure to use it responsibly and in accordance with local laws to avoid blinding other drivers.
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Tire Shine
Winter grime, road salt, and constant exposure to moisture can cause your tires to dry out and look worn down. Using a tire shine product can help keep the rubber conditioned and protected against the elements. Many formulas leave a protective layer that helps repel slush and dirt, making your wheels easier to clean after driving through snow. Aside from the protection, it also helps your vehicle look a little more presentable, even when the weather isn’t cooperating.
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Car Wipes
Snow, mud, and salt have a way of finding their way inside your cabin during winter. Car wipes make it easy to quickly clean off dirty door panels, dashboards, and center consoles without needing a full interior detail. They’re especially useful for wiping away foggy fingerprints or smudges on interior surfaces that might distract you while driving. Keeping a pack within reach means you can tidy up after each trip, preventing grime from building up over the course of the season.
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Bug and Tar Remover
You might associate bug and tar remover with summer, but it’s just as useful in winter. Instead of insects, your biggest enemies are road salt, brine, and stubborn grime that can cling to your front bumper and lower panels. These products help break down tough residue that regular washing might not remove, protecting your paint from long-term damage. Using a bug and tar remover as part of your winter wash routine can keep your vehicle looking clean and help prevent corrosion from forming.
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Jumper Cables
Don’t forget to add jumper cables to your list of winter car essentials. Car batteries naturally recharge as you drive, but the biting cold can stop your car from even starting. Because cold weather slows down the electrochemical reaction in the battery, it also drains around 30% to 60% of your battery power.
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Car Cover
Protect your vehicle from the wind, snow, and ice by using a high-quality car cover. Car covers can prevent ice, rain, and moisture from ruining your paint job. You can even order a custom-made cover that specifically fits your vehicle and its accessories.
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