Whether it’s your first winter driving or your twentieth, taking to the roads when there’s ice and snow can be a harrowing experience. Plus, you have to deal with a lot of misinformation. Yes, there’s a wealth of knowledge out there about how to deal with wintry conditions, but not all of it is accurate. Many drivers follow winter driving tips that can actually increase risks instead of reducing them. To help you stay safe, the team at Elmer’s Auto Body has gotten together to debunk some of the most common winter driving myths. Let’s get started.
Myth 1: All Season Tires are Better Than Winter Tires
Many NJ drivers are under the assumption that “all-season” means that your tires can handle every season, regardless of the conditions. Unfortunately, all-season only means decent performance across the board, particularly in mild seasons. All-season tires don’t provide the same amount of grip and safety as winter tires.
Winter tires are specifically designed for temperatures below 45°F and offer superior traction on snow and ice. Their rubber compound stays flexible in the cold, providing better handling and shorter stopping distances. If you frequently drive in snowy or icy conditions, switching to winter tires can significantly enhance safety.
Myth 2: Four-Wheel Drive Makes You Invincible in Wintry Conditions
While four-wheel drive (4WD) can help you accelerate and maintain traction on snowy roads, it doesn’t make you immune to sliding or losing control. Many drivers with 4WD overestimate their vehicles’ capabilities and may end up taking unnecessary risks, believing that 4WD alone is enough.
The fact of the matter is that 4WD vehicles still slide. Regardless of the car you are driving, it’s crucial to drive slowly, avoid sharp turns, and remember that 4WD doesn’t make stopping any easier. Practicing safe braking and steering techniques is just as important.
Myth 3: You Don’t Need to Warm Up The Car Before Driving
Some believe that modern engines don’t need to warm up before driving in winter, but this isn’t entirely accurate. Cold weather can cause fluids to thicken and limit their ability to properly lubricate the engine and other parts. Warming up your car for a few minutes allows the engine oil and other fluids to circulate properly, reducing strain on the engine and ensuring smoother performance. While idling for 15-30 seconds is generally sufficient in modern cars, it’s helpful to wait a bit longer in freezing temperatures, especially if you plan to drive at higher speeds.
Myth 4: Lower Tire Pressure Improves Traction on Ice and Snow
There’s a common misconception that deflating tires will increase their grip on icy roads. However, this myth can actually lead to more problems than solutions. Lowering tire pressure reduces traction, increases tire wear, and affects your vehicle’s handling. Proper tire pressure is essential for maintaining traction and control. Always check your tire pressure regularly in winter, as cold temperatures cause pressure to drop naturally. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure, and keep your tires properly inflated to ensure safe winter driving.
Myth 5: ABS and Traction Control Reduce Skidding
ABS and traction control are designed to help you maintain control by preventing wheel lock-up and managing acceleration. However, these systems are not a substitute for safe driving practices. When roads are icy, drive slowly and maintain extra distance from other vehicles. Use ABS and traction control as tools to aid your control, but don’t rely on them entirely to avoid sliding. Such technologies are not foolproof, and things can go wrong.
Myth 6: Salted Roads Mean Safe Driving
Road salt is widely used in New Jersey to prevent ice buildup, and while it does help reduce slipperiness, it’s not a guarantee of safe driving. Salt lowers the freezing point of water, helping to melt ice on the roads, but its effectiveness decreases significantly in very low temperatures. Additionally, salt can corrode the metal parts of your vehicle’s undercarriage, leading to rust and potential structural damage. To protect your car, wash it regularly during winter to remove salt buildup, especially in the wheel wells and underbody.
Myth 7: Pouring Hot Water on a Vehicle Can Defrost It
Have you ever seen those reels or TikToks where someone gets the idea to pour hot water on the door handle or windshield of their car and something terrible happens? That’s the truth. Pouring hot water on a frozen windshield is dangerous because the rapid temperature shift can stress the glass, leading to cracks. Instead, use an ice scraper, start your defroster, and allow your car to warm up. De-icing spray or rubbing alcohol can also help melt ice safely without risking windshield damage.
Myth 8: You Don’t Need to Carry an Emergency Kit for Short Trips
Winter breakdowns and accidents are unpredictable, and having an emergency kit in your car is essential regardless of the distance you plan to travel. Include items like a blanket, flashlight, first-aid kit, ice scraper, jumper cables, and non-perishable snacks. You’ll be grateful for these supplies if you’re ever stuck in an unexpected situation on the road.
Myth 9: Bridges and Overpasses Are Not as Slippery as Roads
Many drivers believe that bridges and overpasses aren’t as susceptible to ice as regular roads, but these structures actually freeze faster and can be more hazardous. Why? Because bridges and overpasses have no ground beneath them to retain heat, so they freeze more quickly than other road surfaces. Always slow down and drive cautiously when crossing bridges and overpasses in winter, as these areas are prone to black ice, even when the rest of the road appears clear.
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Knowing the facts about winter driving in New Jersey can help you stay safer on the road and avoid common mistakes. By avoiding these myths and practicing sound winter driving habits, you’re better equipped to handle whatever challenges come your way this season. And if a winter collision occurs while you are driving this winter, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. Protect yourself from winter’s hazards by driving smart, and contact Elmer’s Auto Body for professional collision repair when you need it.