What to do if a Vehicle Breakdown Occurs During the Winter

Winter weather can be unpredictable making driving conditions more difficult during storms. The colder temperatures may also increase the likelihood of a vehicle breakdown.  If you find yourself in a breakdown situation there are some things you can do to keep safe while waiting for a tow.

When it comes to winter driving, it’s always best to plan for the unexpected.  The best way to minimize a breakdown is to invest in maintenance. During any appointment with Shade Tree Garage, we perform a 27-point safety inspection. When you keep up with regular maintenance we’ll be able to notify you of components that are beginning to show excessive wear. You can then schedule to have the component addressed before it fails.

Breakdowns still do occur. Beyond the need to keep up with car maintenance, it’s a good idea to be aware of some safety tips in the event your vehicle breaks down. This is especially important if it happens during a winter storm. Here they are:

• Try to pull over to a safe location.
• Call for assistance.  If you are in an emergency situation, call 911.  Describe the location and the situation.  Follow any instructions given.
• If you break down in a winter storm, stay in the vehicle.  Walking in a winter storm can be very dangerous.
• Avoid over-exertion.  Attempting to push a car or shoveling snow takes great effort in cold weather and storm conditions.
• Keep an Emergency Kit in your vehicle.  At a minimum, carry water, two or more blankets, a snow shovel and scraper, a flashlight and extra batteries, extra clothing (cap, mittens, etc.), extra windshield washer fluid, flares or reflectors, paper towels and a piece of brightly-colored cloth.
• Don’t run the engine unless the exhaust pipe is free of snow or other objects.  If possible, only run the engine at 10-minute intervals for heat.
• To be visible to other vehicles and rescuers, tie a brightly-colored cloth to the vehicle antenna or door handle.

Handling some basic auto maintenance now will go a long way toward making sure a vehicle is safe and dependable when the temperatures drop and severe winter weather strikes. Click here to schedule your appointment with Morristown, New Jersey’s, Shade Tree Garage.

photo credit: Winter in the Beaches via photopin (license)