Get Your Vehicle Winter Ready

Winter Ready in Montana

It’s that time of year to prepare for chilly winter weather! Winters in northwest Montana can be filled with snow and icy roads, leading to a brutal season. However, if you’re ready for the next winter storm, there is plenty to enjoy in the Treasure State! One of the best ways to prepare for the weather is to have your vehicle ready for snow. 

Tires

If you find yourself driving on snow-covered roads often or mountain passes, you’ll want to find a pair of winter tires that are appropriately rated for snow. This will provide more secure handling of your vehicle and also allow for greater stopping ability on snow-packed roads. When shopping for tires, consider your usual winter driving conditions, as this will help determine whether studded or studless tires are more suitable for you. Consider studded tires if you will be driving on icy roads and studless tires if you will be driving on slushy or snowy roads. In Montana, studded tires are allowed October 1 – May 31. Our parts experts can help you determine which tires are best for your driving habits. 

Winter Car Safety Kits

In the unfortunate event that you get stuck in the snow, having some of these essentials could make a challenging situation a little easier. 

• Ice scraper
• Blanket
• Winter boots, warm coat, hat, and gloves. 
• Reflective gear and flashlights 
• Phone Charger
• Kitty litter – this odd item can help provide traction in snowy situations.
• Basic first aid kit 
• Battery jumping cables
• Hand warmers
• Non-perishable food stash (ie. granola bars, protein bars & water bottles)

Apps and Websites 

While having the proper supplies for winter weather is imperative, knowing what the weather is going to be like is also key. With technology at our fingertips, there are numerous apps and websites available to utilize, ensuring we are prepared. The best part is that many are free. 

• Accuweather gives live radar, news reports, weather alerts, and hourly/daily/extended forecasts. Downloads: iOS android 
• The Weather Channel app similarly gives live local radar, forecasts, and even pollen counts. Downloads: iOS android 

Using the Montana Department of Transportation website can be an excellent resource for crossing through the Last Best Place. Visit the traveler information page for a wealth of road safety resources, including an interactive road map of current road conditions.