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Texas Winter 2026-27 Weather Awareness: 5 Car Risks Before Ice & Snow
Austin, TX – Five common vehicle problems could leave Texas drivers stranded when freezing rain, black ice or extreme cold arrives this winter. From Dallas Fort Worth, Houston, Austin and San Antonio
By Mason Reid · 2026-10-30T08:26:32.340Z
Austin, TX – Five common vehicle problems could leave Texas drivers stranded when freezing rain, black ice or extreme cold arrives this winter. From Dallas Fort Worth, Houston, Austin and San Antonio to Waco, Tyler, Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, El Paso and Corpus Christi, motorists should prepare their vehicles before hazardous winter conditions develop.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA , winter vehicle preparation includes checking tires, batteries, windshield wipers, lights and essential fluids. The National Weather Service NWS also recommends carrying emergency supplies and monitoring forecasts before traveling during winter weather.
5 Car Problems to Fix Before Winter 1. Worn tires or low pressure
Insufficient tire tread reduces traction on wet or icy pavement. Check tire pressure against the manufacturer's recommendation, usually listed on the driver's door jamb. Freezing temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop.
2. Brakes that need attention
Black ice and freezing rain can sharply increase stopping distances. Have worn or poorly performing brakes inspected. Four wheel drive does not prevent sliding while braking.
3. Damaged windshield wipers
Replace streaking wipers, use washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures and keep an ice scraper available. Frost 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. Follow manufacturer recommendations for essential fluids.
Texas Highways Face Different Winter Hazards Winter weather can affect Interstate 35, Interstate 10, Interstate 20, Interstate 30, Interstate 40 and Interstate 45.
North Texas, including Dallas, Tarrant, Denton and Collin counties, can experience sleet, freezing rain and icy bridges.
Across the Panhandle and West Texas, snow, strong winds and freezing temperatures can create hazardous travel near Amarillo, Lubbock and Midland.
Central Texas drivers in Travis, Williamson, Hays and Bexar counties should watch for ice on elevated highways, overpasses and ramps.
Along the Gulf Coast, freezing precipitation is less common, but occasional cold outbreaks can still disrupt travel around Houston, Galveston and Corpus Christi.
What Texas Drivers Should Keep in Their Cars Pack blankets, warm clothing, water, nonperishable food, a flashlight, phone charger and reflective warning devices. Jumper cables or a portable jump starter can provide additional protection.
Before traveling, check forecasts and road conditions. Slow down, increase following distance and avoid unnecessary trips during ice storms or highway closures.
If stranded during severe 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 Fort Worth office , NWS Austin/San Antonio office , NWS Houston/Galveston office , NWS Amarillo office , Texas DriveTexas road conditions and NHTSA winter driving safety resources .