
Hola, my friends! As we gear up for another full-throttle winter season, it's time to give our trusty steeds some love. Whether you're a seasoned pow-hound or a weekend warrior, prepping your car for winter driving is essential for safe and smooth travels. So, let's dive into some tips and tricks to ensure your ride is ready to tackle those snowy mountain roads.
Cruising the Sierra: A Word on Mountain Passes
Now, before we get into the nitty-gritty of car prep, let's talk about navigating those majestic mountain passes. Whether you're shredding Bear Valley off Highway 4, Dodge Ridge off Highway 108, China Peak off Highway 168, or Mt. High off Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2), it's crucial to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
Coop's ERK (Emergency Road Kit) Essentials:
Phone Power: Cell phone and charger (mountain service can be flaky!). Harness the Power of the Sun: Solar Options Don't get left in the dark! Even when stranded, the sun can be your friend. Portable solar chargers are compact and perfect for keeping your phone alive when you need it most. Look for chargers with a high capacity and a built-in flashlight. And for an extra layer of safety, consider a solar-powered lantern or headlamp – they're lightweight, reliable, and won't drain your car battery.
Chow Down: Water, snacks, and extra food for those "stuck in a blizzard" moments.
Fluid Up: Windshield wiper fluid and radiator fluid (winterized, of course!).
Stay Cozy: Sleeping bag or blankets for unexpected sleepovers in your car.
Dry Digs: A change of clothes in case things get wet and wild.
Safety Squad: Flares, shovels, and gloves for digging out and staying safe.
Traction Nation: Tire chains (pro-fitted! - This means having them professionally fitted before you need them) and tensioners for ultimate grip.
Roadside Rescue: Jumper cables, tow strap, and a headlamp with extra batteries.
Bonus Tip: Crank up the DryGuy boot dryer/heater in your car on the way to the mountain (plug it into your 12V outlet). Toasty toes when you arrive? Oh yeah!

Summit Savvy:
When you're heading over a summit, always top off your gas tank or ensure your EV has a full charge. Let your family or friends know your departure and estimated arrival times. And remember, during those big duck dumps aka storms, slow'yr'roll and give yourself plenty of space between you and the car in front of you. Safety first, my friends!
4WD vs. AWD: The Age-Old Debate
Let's address the elephant in the room: 4WD or AWD? Both systems offer superior traction compared to their 2WD counterparts, but which one reigns supreme in the snow? Well, it depends.
AWD is awesome for sure-footed control on those plowed roads. When it comes to AWD, Toyota, Audi, Subaru, Volvo, and BMW are go-to brands for superior traction. This is especially important for vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van, which can be prone to tipping due to its high center of gravity. AWD provides that extra stability Sprinter owners need, especially when navigating snowy roads.
But 4WD, often found in trucks and SUVs, is your best friend for those extreme conditions and unplowed snow. It's the king of getting you unstuck! When it comes to trucks, Toyota, Ford, Chevy, and Dodge are my go-to brands.
And remember, whether you choose AWD or 4WD, a good set of winter 'SNOW' tires is essential for optimal performance in snowy conditions. This is especially true for top-heavy vehicles like the Sprinter, where traction is key to safe handling. Think of those winter tires as heavy-duty winter boots for your vehicle!
And a quick note about lifted trucks: limit lifts, if any, to a maximum of 3" to 4". If you go too high, your vehicle just gets tippy!
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and driving style. But hey, if you're lucky enough to have either AWD or 4WD, you're already ahead of the game!
Snow Tires: Your Winter Grip
If you're serious about winter driving, snow tires are non-negotiable. Think of them as your car's winter boots, providing the grip and control you need to navigate those icy roads. Snow tires are made with softer rubber compounds and aggressive tread patterns, ensuring optimal traction in snow and ice. Plus, they're labeled with the three-peaked mountain snowflake (3PMSF) symbol, so you know they're up to the task. Trust me, investing in a good set of snow tires is like giving your car a superpower for winter driving.

Five Winter Tires to Check Out:
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90
Michelin X-Ice Snow
Bridgestone Blizzak DM-V2
Michelin X-Ice Snow SUV
Pirelli Winter Sottozero 3
Fluid Check: Keeping Things Flowing
Winter conditions can put a strain on your car's engine and other vital systems. Before you hit the road, schedule an oil change and check all your fluids, including coolant, transmission fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and power steering fluid. Oh, and don't forget to use cold-weather wiper fluid to prevent those nasty frozen blades. Visibility is key when navigating snowy roads, so make sure your wipers are up to par.
Roof Racks and Cargo Storage: Hauling Your Gear
Ah, the eternal dilemma: roof rack or cargo box? Both have their pros and cons. Cargo boxes offer more space and versatility, but they can impact your gas mileage. Roof racks are more fuel-efficient but offer less storage. Ultimately, the choice depends on your needs and priorities. Just remember to always secure your rack or box before hitting the road. You don't want to be that person with skis flying off their car on the highway!
Bonus Tip: Warm Boots on Arrival
Here's a little trick I've been using lately: plug your DryGuy boot dryer/heater into your car's outlet while driving to the mountain. This way, your boots will be nice and toasty when you arrive, saving you from the dreaded frozen-foot feeling. It's a small thing, but it makes a big difference on those frigid mornings.
My friends, we've got an awesome winter ahead of us! It's time to get your ERK ready, your Cali Pass in hand, and your #StokeLevelHigh. Stay safe out there, and I'll see you on the mountain!
Stay'nThirsty for POW,
Coop Need a Cali Pass Pow-Huntn Tag
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