The Snow Must Go On
Winter hits fast and hard, turning clear roads treacherous in minutes. That’s why preparing for the cold season is essential for every driver to avoid breakdowns. At Hanser’s Towing, we know that staying ahead of winter can save more than just time. It’s about safety and keeping your vehicle ready for the harshest conditions. To help you out, our Lewistown emergency roadside assistance team is sharing its top tips to keep you road-ready this season. Let’s dive right in!
Inspect Your Tires for Winter Readiness
Your tires are your first line of defense against icy roads. Checking their condition now can save you from sliding later.
- Tread depth matters: Worn tires have less grip. Use a penny to check—if Lincoln’s head is visible, it’s time for new tires.
- Consider winter tires: These are designed to handle snow and ice, offering better traction in colder temperatures.
- Check tire pressure: Cold weather can lower tire pressure, so keep them inflated to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Test Your Battery Strength
No one wants to deal with a dead battery on a freezing morning. Batteries lose power in cold weather, making it harder for your car to start.
- Inspect connections: Clean off any corrosion around the terminals.
- Test voltage: A mechanic can check if your battery is holding enough charge or if it’s time for a replacement.
- Carry jumper cables: If your battery dies, our Lewistown emergency roadside assistance team can always help with a jump-start, but having cables on hand is always wise.
Don’t Forget Antifreeze
Antifreeze is the unsung hero of winter driving, preventing your engine from freezing in the cold.
- Check levels and ratio: Ensure your coolant reservoir is full and the mix is 50% water and 50% antifreeze for optimal protection.
- Inspect for leaks: A puddle under your car could mean trouble, so fix any leaks before temperatures drop further.
Keep Your Windshield Clear
Visibility is critical in snowy or icy conditions. Preparing your windshield ahead of time can prevent dangerous situations.
- Refill washer fluid: Use a fluid formulated for freezing temperatures.
- Replace wiper blades: Streaky or ineffective blades should be swapped out for winter versions.
- De-icer spray: Keep some on hand to clear ice buildup quickly.
Stock an Emergency Kit
Even with the best preparation, winter has a way of throwing surprises our way. Be ready for anything by keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle.
- Flashlight with extra batteries.
- Warm blankets and gloves.
- Non-perishable snacks and water.
- First aid kit and a phone charger.
- Sand or kitty litter for traction if you get stuck.
If you find yourself stranded, our Lewistown emergency roadside assistance operators can provide quick and reliable help to get you back on track.
Winter Car Prep FAQ
1. Why is winter car prep so important in Montana?
Cold snaps lower tire pressure, drain batteries, thicken engine fluids, and reduce traction on snow and ice. A little preparation in fall prevents many of the most common winter breakdowns we see on Lewistown roads.
2. When should I switch to winter tires?
Put them on before the first major freeze or snow—typically when daytime temps stay below 45°F.
Winter tires have softer rubber and special tread patterns that grip icy roads better than all-season tires.
3. How do I know if my tires are winter-ready?
- Check tread depth: insert a penny; if you see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tire is too worn.
- Look for the mountain/snowflake symbol on the sidewall for winter-rated tires.
- Keep tire pressure at the manufacturer’s recommendation; pressure drops as temperatures fall.
4. What battery checks should I do before cold weather?
- Clean the terminals of corrosion.
- Have the voltage tested by a shop; cold weather reduces starting power.
- Replace older batteries (4+ years) before the first deep freeze.
- Keep jumper cables in the trunk — or call our Lewistown emergency roadside assistance if you’re stranded.
5. Why does antifreeze matter in winter?
Antifreeze keeps the engine coolant from freezing and prevents costly cracks in the block.
- Check that the coolant reservoir is full.
- Use a 50/50 antifreeze–water mix for best cold-weather protection.
- Fix any leaks before the first sustained freeze.
6. How can I keep my windshield clear in snowy weather?
- Fill the washer reservoir with winter-grade fluid.
- Replace worn wiper blades — winter blades resist ice buildup.
- Carry de-icer spray or scraper for frosty mornings.
Good visibility is as important for safety as good traction.
7. What belongs in a winter emergency kit for my car?
Pack items you can rely on if stranded in freezing temps:
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Warm blankets, gloves, and hat
- Water and non-perishable snacks
- Sand or kitty litter for traction on ice
- Portable phone charger and first-aid kit
Our Lewistown roadside teams respond fast, but having supplies helps you stay safe while you wait.
8. What’s the best way to avoid getting stuck on snowy backroads?
- Slow down and keep a larger following distance.
- Use winter tires and keep them properly inflated.
- Keep the gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel-line freeze-ups.
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp steering on slick surfaces.
9. Should I call for roadside assistance or try to handle problems myself?
If you’re facing a dead battery, stuck vehicle, or breakdown on a snowy shoulder, call Lewistown emergency roadside assistance right away. DIY fixes in sub-zero weather or on the roadside can be risky; trained crews have the tools, lighting, and safety gear to handle it quickly.
10. How can Hanser’s Towing help with winter roadside problems?
Our Lewistown emergency roadside assistance team is available 24/7 for:
- Jump-starts and battery service
- Tire changes or inflation
- Lewistown towing from snowbanks, ditches, or icy roads
- Emergency fuel delivery and lockout help
We know Montana winters — and we show up ready with the right gear.
Lewistown Emergency Roadside Assistance: Plan for the Unexpected
We’ve all been there—a flat tire, dead battery, or getting stuck in a snowbank. Our Lewistown emergency roadside assistance team is always ready to assist with jump-starts, towing, or anything else you might need. Winter driving is unpredictable, but knowing help is just a call away can make all the difference.
Taking proactive steps now can prevent stressful roadside emergencies later. Check your tires, pack an emergency kit, and make sure your battery is in top shape before the cold sets in. Small preparations today can save you big problems tomorrow. Don’t wait for the snow to start falling; take these steps today and keep our number handy for all your Lewistown emergency roadside assistance needs. With the right prep and our reliable Lewistown emergency roadside assistance team by your side, we can tackle winter weather together!
