Before a cold-weather trip
- Check battery condition, tire pressure and tread, visibility and the spare or repair kit.
- Carry warm clothing, a charged phone and emergency supplies.
- Never run an engine in an enclosed garage or with a blocked exhaust.
What to do
- Test the battery
Cold weather demands more starting power. Have an older or slow-cranking battery and the charging system checked before a deep freeze.
- Inspect tires and the spare
Check cold tire pressure using the driver-door placard, tread and sidewall condition. Check the spare, jack or mobility kit, too. Consider tires suited to winter conditions.
- Check fluids and visibility
Use coolant that meets the vehicle specification, appropriate washer fluid, working wipers, defroster, lights and heater. Fix leaks before a cold snap.
- Carry practical supplies
Keep a charged phone, warm clothing, scraper, small shovel, flashlight and emergency kit. Tell someone your route during severe weather.
Important limit
If you break down in dangerous cold or traffic, prioritize a safe location and call for help. Do not run a vehicle in an enclosed garage or with an obstructed exhaust.
How to reduce the chance of this happening
Keep up with routine maintenance and check weather and road conditions before a longer North Side trip.
Winter weather left you stuck?
Once you are safely stopped, call with your location and vehicle details. Read about jump-start help or battery replacement. Confirm suitability, availability and price by phone.
Call (312) 451-5785English & Spanish assistance · Hablamos español.
Sources and vehicle-specific instructions
Follow your vehicle owner’s manual for procedures and equipment limits. These sources informed the general safety guidance:
More help from Rick’s
For a service assessment in Lake View East or Chicago’s North Side, see the roadside assistance guide or Rick’s main website. Confirm availability, price and vehicle fit by phone.