Weather
Vermont Winter 2026-27: Is Your Car Ready for Snow and Ice?
Montpelier, VT – A dead battery, worn tires or failing brakes could leave Vermont drivers stranded when winter temperatures plunge. From Burlington and South Burlington to Montpelier, Rutland, Barre,
By Cole Barrett · 2026-10-30T07:57:04.260Z
Montpelier, VT – A dead battery, worn tires or failing brakes could leave Vermont drivers stranded when winter temperatures plunge. From Burlington and South Burlington to Montpelier, Rutland, Barre, St. Albans and Brattleboro, motorists are being encouraged to address five common vehicle problems before snow and ice make travel more dangerous.
According to the National Weather Service NWS , winter vehicle preparedness begins with tires, brakes, windshield wipers, washer fluid and batteries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration NHTSA also recommends checking critical vehicle systems before winter driving conditions develop.
5 Car Problems to Fix Before Snow Arrives 1. Worn tires or low tire pressure
Tires with insufficient tread can struggle to maintain traction on snowy or icy roads. Check tire pressure using the manufacturer's recommended setting, typically found on the driver's door jamb.
Winter tires can provide better traction in cold, snowy conditions, especially on Vermont's steep and winding roads.
2. Brakes that need attention
Worn brakes can become especially dangerous when stopping distances increase on slippery pavement.
Have a qualified mechanic inspect the braking system. All wheel drive may help a vehicle accelerate in snow, but it does not eliminate the need for effective brakes and tires.
3. Damaged windshield wipers
Snow, slush and road spray can quickly reduce visibility.
Replace damaged wiper blades, refill the reservoir with winter rated washer fluid and keep an ice scraper and snow brush available.
4. A weak or aging battery
Cold temperatures reduce battery performance, making an already weak battery more likely to fail.
Have the battery and charging system tested before winter. A portable jump starter can provide additional protection against being stranded.
5. Heating, lighting or fluid problems
Check the heater, windshield defroster, headlights, brake lights and engine coolant protection.
Drivers should also follow manufacturer recommendations for engine oil and other essential fluids.
What Vermont Drivers Should Keep in Their Vehicles The NHTSA recommends carrying emergency supplies, including blankets, warm clothing, water, nonperishable food, a flashlight and a phone charger.
A shovel, jumper cables or portable jump starter, and reflective warning devices can also be useful during a roadside emergency.
Snow and Ice Can Make Vermont Highways Dangerous Winter conditions can affect Interstate 89, Interstate 91, U.S. Route 7 and mountain roads across Chittenden, Washington, Rutland, Windsor, Windham and Franklin counties.
The Green Mountains can experience heavy snowfall, freezing rain and rapidly changing visibility, while rural roads may remain slippery after storms.
Before traveling, drivers should check forecasts and road conditions, remove snow from the entire vehicle and allow additional travel time.
If stranded during severe weather, remaining with the vehicle may be safer than walking for help. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow before running the engine to reduce carbon monoxide risks.
Residents can find additional guidance through the NWS Burlington office , NWS Albany office , Vermont 511 road conditions and NHTSA winter driving safety resources .