Enhancing Winter Driving Safety: A Guide to Aftermarket Snow Equipment at SEMA 2023.

Please join us on TechTalk where we will review and demonstrate the wonderful products we found at SEMA in November 2023 that significantly enhance Winter Driving and Safety.

When winter hits, driving in snowy and icy conditions can be treacherous, especially without the right equipment. While new vehicles are equipped with advanced safety technology, aftermarket snow safety gear can provide additional protection and improve control on icy roads. Here’s a look at some of the best aftermarket safety equipment available for winter driving, from traction-boosting accessories to essential emergency tools.

1. Winter Tires and Chains

• Winter Tires: Winter tires are designed specifically for low temperatures, ice, and snow, using specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns. Unlike all-season tires, winter tires remain flexible in cold conditions, enhancing traction and grip. They’re essential for anyone facing regular snowy weather and help reduce braking distances significantly on ice and snow.
• Tire Chains: For extreme winter conditions or mountainous regions, tire chains can make a huge difference. They are especially helpful in areas where snow tires might not provide enough traction. Newer models are often self-tightening, making them easier to install and remove.

2. Snow Traction Mats

• Purpose: Getting stuck in the snow is a common winter hazard, and spinning tires can dig vehicles deeper into a snowy rut. Snow traction mats are an easy-to-use solution that provides extra grip under your wheels to help you get out of a tough spot.
• Usage: Simply place the mats under your tires and gently accelerate to regain traction. These mats are typically compact and portable, so they’re easy to store in your trunk.

3. Upgraded Windshield Wiper Blades

• Winter Wiper Blades: Icy buildup on standard wiper blades can reduce visibility in heavy snow. Winter wiper blades have a rubber casing that prevents snow and ice buildup, keeping the blade flexible in freezing temperatures. They also exert more pressure on the windshield, helping to keep the glass clear.
• Heated Wipers: For an even more advanced solution, heated wiper blades melt ice on contact, ensuring better visibility throughout your drive. These wipers are especially useful in blizzard conditions when visibility is critical.

4. Portable Jump Starter

• Why It’s Needed: Cold weather can be hard on car batteries, and there’s nothing worse than getting stranded with a dead battery in freezing temperatures. A portable jump starter allows you to restart your engine without needing another vehicle.
• Additional Features: Many portable jump starters also come with flashlights, USB charging ports, and built-in air compressors, making them a versatile tool to have on hand in case of winter emergencies.

5. Snow Brushes and Ice Scrapers

• Heavy-Duty Snow Brush: A sturdy snow brush with an extendable handle is ideal for clearing snow off your vehicle without straining yourself or damaging your car’s paint.
• Dual Ice Scraper: An ice scraper with a soft-bristle brush on one end and a tough scraping edge on the other is ideal for clearing off stubborn ice and snow buildup from your windows and mirrors. Some advanced models come with heated edges to make scraping faster and easier.

6. Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

• How It Helps: Cold weather can cause a drop in tire pressure, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. An aftermarket tire pressure monitoring system is a valuable investment to keep your tires at optimal pressure.
• Easy Installation: These systems are easy to install and provide real-time readings, helping you avoid dangerous tire conditions on winter roads.

7. Heated Car Blankets and Seat Covers

• Emergency Warmth: In case of a breakdown or long wait, a heated car blanket can keep you warm while waiting for help. Some models plug into the 12V car outlet, making them convenient to use in any vehicle.
• Heated Seat Covers: Heated seat covers not only offer comfort but can also help with circulation and keep drivers more alert, reducing the risk of fatigue during long drives in cold weather.

8. Emergency Roadside Kit

• Winter-Specific Kits: A roadside kit designed for winter should include essential items like thermal blankets, hand warmers, flares, and a small shovel. Some kits also contain high-traction gloves, traction mats, and even small bags of sand for traction.
• Lightweight Snow Shovel: Compact snow shovels are perfect for digging out tires in a pinch. They are foldable and lightweight, making them easy to store and carry without taking up much space.

9. Fog Lights and LED Light Bars

• Enhanced Visibility: Winter storms can greatly reduce visibility. Aftermarket LED fog lights and light bars can provide additional illumination on foggy, snowy, or dark winter roads. These lights are typically mounted to the front of your vehicle, helping you spot hazards earlier and providing other drivers with a clearer view of your vehicle in low-visibility conditions.

10. Wheel Spacers for Extra Stability

• Improved Handling: Wheel spacers increase the width between the wheels, enhancing stability and control. In winter, this can provide more balanced handling, especially on slippery roads. Spacers must be chosen carefully to match your vehicle specifications and ensure safe installation.

Choosing the Right Equipment for Winter Driving

Equipping your vehicle with the right aftermarket safety tools can greatly enhance your safety, control, and peace of mind during winter driving. The right selection depends on factors like your location, typical weather conditions, and the type of vehicle you drive. Properly outfitting your vehicle before the snow starts falling ensures you’re prepared for whatever winter roads might throw your way, helping you drive confidently and safely.

by, Scott Kraft, Tech Producer (TechTalk Host)

Scott Kraft is the Technology Producer for Utah Channel 3. He is a degreed Electrical Engineer that applies engineering testing/procedures to products that are of technical interest to those participating in sporting activities in Southern Utah.