Important Car Features for Snow Conditions
iSeeCars.com points out that not all cars are created equal when it comes to taking on all-weather driving conditions. Here is the car search engine's list of some important features that help improve a car’s performance in snow conditions:
All-Wheel Drive/Four-Wheel Drive: All-wheel drive sends power to all four wheels. The power is divided between the front and rear wheels, which can be helpful in snowy and icy conditions. If one slips, the others will power the vehicle. Four-wheel drive sends a fixed amount of power to each axle, and it can be switched on or off by the driver.
Anti-Lock Brakes: Anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps prevent wheels from locking up and improve steering control while braking. ABS automatically cycles the brake pads in a sudden stop, and is helpful when trying to slow down on a slippery surface.
Driver-Assist Technology (forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking): Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) assist drivers while driving and parking. In snowy conditions, ADS features like forward collision warning, automatic high beam headlights, and automatic emergency braking can help prevent accidents.
Ground Clearance: Ground clearance or ride height is the minimum distance between the bottom of the vehicle and the ground. High ground clearance helps protect against damage when crossing uneven, snowy terrain preventing the bottom of the vehicle from scraping against it.
Headlight Washers: Headlight washers help improve visibility by wiping headlights to remove snow or dirt.
Heated Mirrors: Heated side mirrors quickly remove snow and ice from your mirrors.
Heated Seats/Steering Wheel: This comfort feature helps the driver stay warm in freezing conditions.
Remote Start: Another Remote start is another comfort feature that allows the driver to start their car even before the driver is inside that car without having to brave the .
Traction/Stability Control: Traction and stability control systems are packed together to help ensure that all wheels have maximum traction. Traction control stops wheels from spinning, while electronic stability control (ESC) automatically brakes individual wheels when grip and traction and helps the vehicle follow the driver’s intended path.
Winter/Snow Tires: Winter tires outperform all-season tires in snowy conditions, even if a car is has all-wheel drive. These tires can help prevent accidents from black ice and heavy snow.
See the list of iSeeCars' Best Cars for Snow which have the right combination of features that improve driver performance in light to deep snow and on icy terrain conditions and improve visibility during winter conditions.
When in the market for a used car, stop by Carousel Preowned. CarouselPreowned serving Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, North Liberty, Marion, and Coralville, IA, is proud to be an automotive leader in our community. We do our best to ensure your complete satisfaction every time you step into our car dealership. This is why we offer the widest selection of used and pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs and provide true ease of purchase in Iowa.