DIFFERENCE
Chevy Features That Help in Winter | Wheelers
Winter in Wisconsin is no joke. Your Chevy may already have features that make it a lot easier.
From a warm cabin before you step outside to modes built for slick roads, here are the winter-friendly features worth knowing about.
By the Wheelers Team | Wheelers Chevrolet GMC of Marshfield
The Chevy features that help most in winter are remote start, heated seats and steering wheel, heated mirrors and defrost, a Snow/Ice drive mode, all-wheel or four-wheel drive, traction and stability control, and an engine block heater. Which ones you have depends on your model, trim, and year, so check your owner’s manual or ask us.
Why It Pays to Know Your Vehicle
Most of us use a small slice of what our vehicle can do. Then the first sub-zero morning hits, and we find out our car had a button for that all along. A few minutes now, before the snow flies, can make every winter drive a little safer and a lot more comfortable.
A quick note: Chevrolet features vary by model, trim level, and model year, and some are optional equipment. We have flagged the ones that are most commonly available, but your owner’s manual is the final word on what is in your vehicle.
8 Chevy Features That Help in Winter
Remote Start
Warm up the cabin and start melting frost before you step outside. Depending on your vehicle, you can start it from the key fob or the myChevrolet app, which also lets you lock and unlock doors and find your vehicle on a map.
One safety reminder: never run your vehicle in a closed garage, even with the door cracked. Exhaust fumes can build up fast. Remote start is for driveways and open spaces.
Heated Seats and Heated Steering Wheel
Heated seats and an available heated steering wheel get you comfortable much faster than waiting for the heater to catch up. Many vehicles with remote start can turn these on as part of a cold-weather routine, so check your settings.
Heated Mirrors and Rear Defrost
Ice on the mirrors and a fogged-up rear window cut your visibility right when you need it most. Heated outside mirrors and a rear defogger clear them quickly. Check which are included on your trim.
Heated Wiper Park
Wipers that freeze to the windshield can tear or leave streaks. On some models, such as the Equinox, an available heated wiper park area warms the base of the windshield to help keep wipers from freezing in place. If your Chevy has it, you will be glad.
Snow/Ice Drive Mode
Many Chevrolet vehicles offer a Driver Mode Control, and some include a Snow/Ice or Weather setting. In Snow/Ice mode, the throttle response changes so acceleration is more gradual, which helps keep the wheels from spinning on slippery roads. Available modes depend on your model and equipment.
Chevrolet explains the options on its Driver Mode Control page.
All-Wheel Drive and Four-Wheel Drive
AWD and 4WD help you get moving on snow-covered roads and in unplowed driveways. Many Chevy SUVs and trucks offer one or both. Just remember that they help you go, not stop. Your tires and your speed still do the most work, which is why good tires matter so much.
Not sure about your tires? Read our posts on getting your tires winter-ready and when to replace them.
Traction Control and StabiliTrak
Traction control reduces wheelspin when you accelerate on slick pavement. StabiliTrak, Chevrolet’s electronic stability control, helps you stay on your intended path if the vehicle begins to slide. You will usually see a flashing light on the dash when they are working. That is a sign to ease off and slow down, not speed up.
Engine Block Heater
When temperatures drop well below zero, a block heater warms your engine so it starts easier. It is available as an accessory on some gas models. It plugs into a standard outlet, so plan to plug in a few hours before you head out. Ask our service team whether one is right for your vehicle.
Driving an EV This Winter?
Cold weather affects the range of any electric vehicle, including Chevy EVs. One of the simplest things you can do is warm up the cabin and battery while the vehicle is still plugged in, so you are not spending driving range on it. GM shares more in its winter tips for EV drivers, and Chevrolet has an EV cold weather guide.
Your Pre-Winter Chevy Checklist
Common Questions
Does my Chevy have remote start?
Many do, but it depends on the model, trim, and year. It may be on the key fob, in the myChevrolet app, or both. Check your owner’s manual or ask our team.
Is all-wheel drive necessary for winter driving?
Not for everyone. AWD or 4WD helps with getting going in snow, but it does not help you stop or turn any better. Good winter-ready tires, careful driving, and the right drive mode all matter too.
Can I add features like a block heater to my current vehicle?
Some accessories can be added to certain models. Our service department can tell you what is available for your vehicle.
What does the flashing traction control light mean?
It means the system is working to keep your tires from slipping. Slow down, avoid sudden moves, and leave extra distance.
Get Your Chevy Ready for Winter
Not sure what features your vehicle has, or ready for one that does more? Our team at Wheelers Chevrolet GMC of Marshfield can walk you through it. We can also check your tires, battery, and more before the cold sets in.
Feature availability varies by model, trim, and model year, and some features are optional or require equipment, a compatible smartphone, or a connected services plan. Always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for details.
0 comment(s) so far on Chevy Features That Help in Winter | Wheelers