Essential Winter Car Accessories for Safe and Comfortable Driving

Must-Have Winter Car Accessories

​Winter driving can be challenging, especially in colder regions or mountain areas where snow, ice, and freezing temperatures become part of your daily routine. Having the right winter car accessories can make a huge difference in comfort, safety, and convenience. Here are some essential winter car accessories that you should consider adding to your vehicle this season:

1. Snow and Ice Scraper with Brush
A good-quality snow and ice scraper is an absolute must for winter driving. It allows you to quickly remove snow from your car's windows, mirrors, and roof and scrape off stubborn ice. Opt for a scraper with an attached brush for clearing larger amounts of snow from your windshield and vehicle body.

• Tip: Look for scrapers with ergonomic handles for a comfortable grip during those cold mornings.

2. Winter Windshield Cover
To avoid having to scrape ice off your windshield every morning, invest in a winter windshield cover. This cover prevents frost, snow, and ice from accumulating on your windshield, saving you time and effort. Simply remove the cover before you start driving, and you’ll have a clear windshield ready to go.

• Tip: Consider getting side window covers as well to protect your mirrors and side windows from frost.

3. Heated Car Seat Covers
Nothing beats the comfort of heated seats during freezing winter drives. If your vehicle doesn’t come with built-in heated seats, you can add heated seat covers that plug into your car's 12V outlet. These covers heat up quickly, providing warmth and comfort on those cold days.

• Tip: Many heated seat covers come with adjustable temperature settings, so you can customize the warmth level.

4. Portable Jump Starter
Cold temperatures can drain your car battery, making it harder to start your vehicle. A portable jump starter is an invaluable accessory to have in your car during winter. This device allows you to jump-start your car without needing another vehicle, which is especially helpful if you’re in a remote area or in extreme weather conditions.

• Tip: Choose a portable jump starter that also includes a flashlight and USB ports for charging your phone in an emergency.

5. Winter Floor Mats
Protect your vehicle's interior from snow, slush, and salt with heavy-duty winter floor mats. These mats are designed to trap moisture and dirt, preventing it from soaking into your car’s carpeting. Look for all-weather rubber mats with raised edges that keep the mess contained.

• Tip: Custom-fit mats provide better protection by covering the entire floor space.

6. Tire Chains
If you frequently drive in snowy or icy conditions, especially in the mountains, tire chains are a must-have accessory. They provide extra traction on slippery roads and can make a significant difference in vehicle control and safety. Make sure to choose chains that fit your tires properly and practice installing them before you actually need to use them.

• Tip: Keep a pair of gloves and a small mat in your car for easier tire chain installation in the cold.

7. Emergency Roadside Kit
Winter driving can bring unpredictable conditions, so it’s essential to have an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle. Your kit should include items like a flashlight, batteries, blankets, water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, a tow strap, and road flares or reflective triangles.

• Tip: Make sure your kit also includes a shovel and a bag of sand or kitty litter to help with traction if you get stuck in snow.

8. Tire Pressure Gauge
Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, affecting your car's handling and safety. A tire pressure gauge allows you to monitor your tire pressure easily and ensure that it’s within the recommended range. Keeping your tires properly inflated is crucial for maintaining traction on icy and snowy roads.

• Tip: Many modern tire pressure gauges are digital and can give you a quick and accurate reading in seconds.

9. Steering Wheel Cover
Cold temperatures can make your steering wheel feel icy to the touch, which can be uncomfortable and distracting while driving. A winter steering wheel cover provides insulation and a better grip, making it more pleasant to handle. Look for covers made of plush materials or even heated options for added warmth.

• Tip: Opt for a steering wheel cover that’s easy to install and remove so you can switch it out when the weather warms up.

10. Trunk Organizer
​During the winter months, your vehicle is likely carrying extra gear like blankets, emergency kits, snow brushes, and more. A trunk organizer keeps everything neatly stored and easily accessible, so you don’t have to rummage through the back of your car in freezing temperatures.

• Tip: Choose an organizer with multiple compartments and adjustable dividers to accommodate different-sized items.

Stay Safe with Winter Accessories from Victory Auto Body and PaintWinter driving requires extra preparation, but with the right accessories, you can ensure a safer and more comfortable experience. At Victory Auto Body and Paint in Burbank, California, we’re here to help you get your vehicle ready for the season. Whether you need advice on winterizing your car, repairs, or maintenance, our expert technicians are always available to help you stay safe on the road this winter.