Roadside call volume spikes 40–60% in the first two weeks of real cold each winter. Marginal batteries that survived fall finally die. Underinflated tires lose enough pressure to trigger warning lights. People run out of gas because their range drops in the cold.
Five things that actually prevent winter breakdowns: battery test in early November, check tire pressure when temperatures drop, keep fuel tank above half (condensation in cold), diesel drivers watch for gelling, and pack a winter kit (blanket, flashlight, charged phone power bank).
Battery test in October — a standard load test takes 30 seconds at any auto-parts store. Replace anything that tests under 75% capacity.
Tire pressure drops ~1 PSI per 10°F. Tires set in fall at 35 PSI are at 32 PSI by winter — enough to wear edges and reduce grip.
Cold-weather tow: if your vehicle has been sitting for days in extreme cold and won't start, sometimes the answer is a tow to a warm shop where fluids can thaw.