Weather
Oregon Winter 2026-27 Weather Awareness: Fix Cars Before Ice & Snow
Salem, OR – Five common vehicle problems could leave Oregon drivers stranded when snow, freezing rain and icy roads develop this winter. From Portland, Salem and Eugene to Bend, Medford, Ashland, Hood
By Caleb Mercer · 2026-10-30T08:28:46.934Z
Salem, OR – Five common vehicle problems could leave Oregon drivers stranded when snow, freezing rain and icy roads develop this winter. From Portland, Salem and Eugene to Bend, Medford, Ashland, Hood River, The Dalles, Pendleton, La Grande and Klamath Falls, motorists should inspect their vehicles before hazardous weather disrupts travel.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA , winter vehicle preparation includes checking tires, batteries, windshield wipers, lights and essential fluids. The Oregon Department of Transportation ODOT also advises drivers to monitor highway conditions and follow posted traction and chain requirements.
5 Car Problems to Fix Before Snow 1. Worn tires or low pressure
Insufficient tread reduces traction on snowy or icy pavement. Check tire pressure against the manufacturer's recommendation. Drivers crossing mountain passes should understand Oregon's chain and traction tire requirements.
2. Brakes that need attention
Snow and ice increase stopping distances, especially on steep grades. Have worn or poorly performing brakes inspected. All wheel drive does not eliminate the risk of sliding while braking.
3. Damaged windshield wipers
Replace streaking wipers, use winter rated washer fluid and carry an ice scraper and snow brush. Heavy rain, slush and freezing precipitation can quickly reduce visibility.
4. A weak battery
Cold temperatures reduce battery performance and can expose an aging battery's weaknesses. Have the battery and charging system tested, and consider carrying a portable jump starter.
5. Heating, lighting or fluid problems
Check the heater, windshield defroster, headlights, brake lights and engine coolant protection. Reliable heating and visibility are especially important during mountain travel.
Oregon Highways Face Different Winter Hazards Winter weather can affect Interstate 5, Interstate 84, U.S. Highway 26, U.S. Highway 97, U.S. Highway 20 and Oregon Route 58.
Across the Cascades, heavy snow can disrupt travel over Santiam Pass, Willamette Pass and Government Camp near Mount Hood.
In the Portland metropolitan area and Willamette Valley, freezing rain can create dangerous ice on bridges, hills and elevated roadways.
Central and Eastern Oregon, including Deschutes, Klamath, Umatilla and Union counties, can experience snow covered highways, freezing temperatures and blowing snow.
Oregon drivers must follow posted chain restrictions. Depending on conditions and vehicle type, traction tires or chains may be required, and some vehicles must carry chains even when they are not yet required to install them.
What Oregon Drivers Should Keep in Their Cars Pack blankets, warm clothing, water, nonperishable food, a flashlight, phone charger, shovel and reflective warning devices. Carry properly sized tire chains when required and practice installing them before traveling.
Before departure, check forecasts, ODOT TripCheck reports and highway closures. Allow extra time and avoid unnecessary travel during severe winter storms.
If stranded in dangerous weather, remaining with the vehicle may be safer than walking for help. Keep the exhaust pipe clear before running the engine to reduce carbon monoxide risks.
For official guidance, visit the NWS Portland office , NWS Medford office , NWS Pendleton office , ODOT TripCheck road conditions , ODOT winter driving information and NHTSA winter driving safety resources .