When winter weather rolls in, it brings more than just snow and slush. For vehicle owners, freezing temperatures, slick roads, and unexpected breakdowns increase the likelihood of needing your vehicle towed. From dead batteries to roadside accidents, the risk of winter driving is real, and preparation is key. Here are some of the most common reasons winter drivers end up calling a tow truck, and how to handle each scenario safely and smartly.
1. Cold Weather Kills Batteries
There’s nothing quite as frustrating as turning the key or pushing the start button and hearing silence on a frigid morning. Cold temperatures slow the chemical reactions inside your car’s battery, reducing its ability to generate power. Batteries more than three years old are especially prone to failure in winter.
If your car won’t start and you don’t have access to a jump-start or portable charger, you’ll likely need roadside assistance or to have your vehicle towed to a service center for diagnostics or replacement. Keeping jumper cables or a battery booster on hand can help, but if the battery is fully drained or damaged, towing is the safest bet.
2. Frozen or Thickened Fluids
Low temperatures impact more than just batteries. They also change the behavior of the fluids your car depends on. Oil thickens in the cold, which increases engine resistance. If your coolant is improperly mixed or hasn’t been flushed in years, it can freeze, leading to overheating once the engine warms up. Fuel lines, especially in older vehicles or diesels, can also freeze, blocking fuel flow completely.
When your engine can’t circulate vital fluids, or it’s at risk of overheating, the safest move is to shut it down and get your vehicle towed to a trusted mechanic. Continuing to drive could lead to permanent engine damage.
3. Slipping or Sliding Off the Road
Even cautious drivers can lose control on icy or snow-covered roads. One wrong turn or an unexpected patch of black ice can send your car into a ditch, snowbank, or off the shoulder. And once you’re stuck, no amount of rocking or tire spinning may be enough to get out, especially in low-clearance or front-wheel-drive vehicles.
This is one of the most common reasons for winter towing. If you find yourself stranded, it’s important to stay with your vehicle, turn on your hazard lights, and call a professional to have your vehicle towed out safely. Trying to push or dig out a vehicle in freezing conditions is dangerous and often ineffective without the right equipment.
4. Tire Damage from Cold or Potholes
Cold air causes tire pressure to drop; roughly 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Underinflated tires are more prone to blowouts and sidewall damage, especially when they hit hidden potholes or icy debris. Winter roads also contribute to accelerated wear and unexpected failures.
If you’re dealing with a flat tire and can’t safely change it yourself on the roadside, it’s best to call roadside assistance or have your vehicle towed rather than risk further damage. Winter conditions are no time for DIY tire swaps on the shoulder of a highway.
5. Overheating or Coolant System Failure
It may sound counterintuitive, but engine overheating can still happen in winter, especially if your coolant system isn’t winter-ready. Old coolant, low fluid levels, or a frozen radiator can all cause temperature spikes that put your engine at risk. In these cases, modern vehicles may automatically shut down to prevent permanent damage.
If you see steam coming from the hood of your vehicle or a temperature warning on your dashboard, pull over immediately. Continuing to drive can crack your engine block or warp internal components. At that point, getting your vehicle towed is the smartest move for your wallet and your safety.
When Winter Strikes, Count On Accurate Towing Service
Winter driving brings unpredictable challenges, but Accurate Towing is here to help when things don’t go as planned. Our experienced operators are trained to handle snowy roads, frozen components, and roadside recoveries with speed and care.
We offer 24/7 towing and roadside assistance for battery failures, off-road recoveries, breakdowns, and flat tires. Our fleet is equipped for winter weather, and our team prioritizes your safety every step of the way. When cold weather leaves you stranded, you can count on us to get your vehicle towed quickly and professionally.
Don’t wait until you’re stuck on the side of the road. Save our number now – (732) 349-6439 and be ready when winter throws you a curveball.
Winter Driving and Towing FAQs
Why does my car battery die more often in winter?
Cold temperatures reduce your battery’s ability to generate power, making it harder to start your engine, especially if the battery is older.
What should I do if my car slides into a snowbank?
Stay in your vehicle with hazard lights on and call for a tow. Trying to dig yourself out without the right tools can be dangerous and rarely works in deep snow.
Can my engine overheat even in cold weather?
Yes. If your coolant is old, low, or improperly mixed, it can freeze or fail to circulate properly, leading to overheating.
What causes tire blowouts in winter?
Cold temperatures lower tire pressure, which increases the risk of sidewall damage—especially when hitting hidden potholes or icy debris.
How can I prevent needing a tow in winter?
Keep your battery and fluids well-maintained, inflate tires to proper PSI, and drive cautiously in snow and ice. Still, towing is sometimes unavoidable
Is towing safe in freezing temperatures?
Yes. Professional towing companies like Accurate Towing use equipment and techniques designed for winter recovery and safety.
How do I know if it’s safe to drive after a breakdown?
If your engine won’t start, is overheating, or your car is stuck, it’s safer to have your vehicle towed rather than risk further damage.
