7 Common Winter Driving Myths Debunked

Winter is one of the most challenging seasons for drivers. Each year, over 540, 000 accidents in the U.S. are attributed to hazardous winter weather. Safely navigating the risks of this season requires vigilance. However, there are persistent myths about winter driving that can lead to dangerous misconceptions.  

Let’s uncover some of the most common winter driving myths and set the record straight.

1. All-Wheel Drive Makes You Invincible on Snow and Ice

Sure, all-wheel drive (AWD) provides better traction during acceleration, but it doesn’t improve braking or steering on icy surfaces. These functions rely on your tires, the vehicle’s weight distribution, and its suspension design. So, don’t place all your confidence in your vehicle’s AWD when navigating icy roads. Always slow down and drive carefully.

2. Winter Tires Aren’t Necessary if You Have All-Season Tires

The saying “jack of all trades, master of none” holds true with all-season tires. They are versatile enough to handle most conditions, but they are inferior to winter tires when it comes to severe winter weather. As temperatures drop, the rubber in all-season tires hardens, reducing their grip on the road. Winter tires, on the other hand, stay flexible and give you the traction you need on slick, icy roads. If you frequently drive in cold, snowy conditions, consider investing in winter tires.

3. You Should Underinflate Tires for Better Traction

The idea behind underinflating tires in snowy conditions is that a slightly softer tire increases contact area with the road, theoretically improving grip. While this reasoning works in some off-road conditions, like driving on sand, it doesn’t translate to winter conditions. Driving in snow and ice requires higher tire contact pressure, as it helps tires dig into snow and bite icy surfaces.  

“Underinflated tires don’t press into snow and ice effectively,” explains Holman’s President of Retail Automotive Frank Carbone.  “To maintain optimal performance, drivers should ensure their tires are kept at the recommended pressure, especially since cold temperatures naturally cause the pressure to drop.”

4. Hot Water Can Quickly Defrost Your Windshield

Pouring hot water on your frozen windshield might seem like a quick fix when you are in a rush, but the sudden, extreme temperature shift can cause it to crack. Instead, use an ice scraper or your car’s defroster. It may take longer, but your windshield will thank you for it.  

5. You Should Warm Up Your Car for Several Minutes Before Driving

In the past, warming up your car for a few minutes before driving in the winter was necessary because older engines needed time to adjust to the cold. Modern gasoline engines require no more than 30 – 60 seconds of idling. After that, driving gently for a few minutes will warm them up fully. Diesel engines, on the other hand, still need a few minutes of warm-up to ensure optimal performance and longevity during winter.  

“Modern engines are designed to warm up faster through driving,” says Carbone. “Leaving a car running in the driveway wastes fuel and releases more pollutants into the air.”

6. Cruise Control Is Safe in Winter Conditions

Cruise control is fantastic for long drives when roads are dry, but winter roads require a more hands-on approach. By manually controlling your speed on icy roads, you can adjust to sudden changes in conditions and reduce the risk of skidding. Using cruise control, on the other hand, can significantly increase your chances of losing control—which is the last thing you want in slick winter weather.  

7. Salt and Sand Eliminates the Risk of Ice

The combination of salt and sand help make winter roads safer by melting ice and providing vehicles immediate traction. But don’t let their presence lower your guard. In extreme cold, salt loses effectiveness, and sand can be blown away or get buried under fresh ice. Always drive cautiously, even on roads that appear clear—you never know where black ice might be lurking.  

Winter driving doesn’t have to be daunting. When you have the facts, you’re better prepared to handle whatever the road throws at you. Drive smart, stay vigilant, and share these facts with your friends and family to help keep everyone safe this winter.