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What is the best way to get my car started in freezing weather?
What is the safest way to start a car in freezing temperatures? I just moved to Connecticut and this will be my first winter in the snow. I am a little nervous and don't want to do anything that will ruin my car—so how can I get it started safely?
Shannon Martin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Good question! Thinking ahead is your best plan of attack, and since it is still fall, you have plenty of time! Before the winter temperatures hit, make sure to winterize your car.
Winterizing your car is what cold weather pros do every year to keep their car running in tip-top shape. The steps include having the following components of your car checked:
- Battery
- Brakes
- Cooling system
- Belts
- Hoses and spark plugs
- Switch towinter tires
- Keep your gas tank no lower than halfway full
- Install winter wiper blades
The primary concern in freezing weather is getting your car started. Before starting your car, turn off the heat, radio, and anything else that might be on. The cold weather causes the fuel lines to freeze and the oil to thicken. Next, turn the key and hold it for 10 seconds. If the car won’t start, get a jump from a neighbor and run the vehicle for at least 30 minutes to prevent needing another jump-start.
If you’re worried about needing a jump-start, you might want to look into
Jerry’s roadside assistance program
. We’ll cover you for towing, lockouts, jump-starts, and even Uber credits—and more! Just download the Jerry app to see what your options are.Best of luck, and drive safely!
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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