Winter in Gilbert is no joke. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures create hazardous driving conditions that lead to hundreds of breakdowns and accidents every season. At Tow Gilbert, we see a dramatic increase in calls during winter months — and most of them are preventable.
This guide will help you prepare for Arizona winter driving and know what to do if you find yourself stranded in the cold.
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Why Winter is Tough on Gilbert Drivers
Arizona winters are no joke. Between November and March, Tow Gilbert responds to twice as many calls as we do during the rest of the year. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and reduced visibility create the perfect conditions for breakdowns and accidents.
The good news? Most winter emergencies are preventable. With proper preparation and smart driving habits, you can dramatically reduce your risk of getting stranded on a cold Arizona night. Here’s everything Gilbert drivers need to know about staying safe this winter.
Common Winter Breakdown Causes
Understanding why vehicles fail in winter helps you prevent problems before they start:
- Dead batteries: Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity by up to 50%. A battery that’s fine in summer may fail completely on a freezing morning.
- Tire problems: Low tread depth means less traction on snow and ice. Under-inflated tires (common in cold weather) make things worse.
- Accidents and slide-offs: Icy roads cause spinouts, collisions, and vehicles ending up in ditches. Even careful drivers can lose control.
- Frozen fuel lines: Moisture in your fuel system can freeze, preventing your engine from starting.
- Coolant failure: Incorrect antifreeze mixture can freeze in your radiator or engine block, causing serious damage.
The best defense against all of these? Proper preparation and regular maintenance.
Winter Driving Preparation Checklist
Complete this checklist before winter arrives to dramatically reduce your risk of a cold-weather breakdown:
- Tires: Check tread depth and consider winter tires for Arizona conditions. Minimum 4/32″ tread for snow.
- Battery: Test your battery — cold weather kills weak batteries. Replace if more than 3-4 years old.
- Coolant: Ensure antifreeze mixture is correct for sub-zero temperatures. A 50/50 mix protects to -34°F.
- Wipers: Replace worn wiper blades and fill washer fluid with winter formula rated below 0°F.
- Emergency kit: Blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, snacks, water, and a small shovel.
- Phone: Keep Tow Gilbert’s number saved: . You’ll be glad you have it when you need it.
- Fuel: Keep your tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze and ensure you have heat if stranded.
What to Do If You Get Stranded in Winter
Even with perfect preparation, things can still go wrong. If you find yourself stranded on a cold Arizona night, follow these steps:
- Stay with your vehicle. Unless help is visible within walking distance, your car provides shelter and makes you easier for rescuers to find.
- Call for help. Call Tow Gilbert at . Give us your exact location (use your phone’s GPS if needed), describe your situation, and stay on the line if needed.
- Make yourself visible. Turn on hazard lights. If you have flares or reflective triangles, set them up behind your vehicle.
- Stay warm. Run your engine for 10-15 minutes per hour with a window cracked for ventilation. Make sure your exhaust pipe isn’t blocked by snow.
- Conserve your phone battery. You’ll need it to communicate with rescuers. Reduce screen brightness and close unnecessary apps.
Building Your Winter Emergency Kit
Every vehicle in Gilbert should carry these items from November through March:
- Warm blanket or sleeping bag
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Small shovel
- Bag of sand or cat litter (for traction)
- Non-perishable snacks and water
- Phone charger (car and/or portable)
- First aid kit
- Tow Gilbert’s phone number:
Expert Tips from Tow Gilbert
- Don’t try to push your car off the highway yourself. Moving across lanes of traffic is incredibly dangerous. Turn on your hazards, stay in your vehicle, and call us.
- Ask about insurance coverage before you need it. Many policies include roadside assistance as an add-on for just a few dollars a month. Check your policy now — not when you’re stranded in Gilbert.
- Never leave valuables visible in a broken-down car. If you have to leave your vehicle on the shoulder, take your wallet, phone, and anything valuable with you. Unfortunately, abandoned vehicles get targeted.
- Keep an emergency kit in your trunk year-round. Jumper cables, flashlight, blanket, water, and basic tools. In Arizona weather, you want to be prepared whether it’s 100°F or -10°F.
- Check your tires before winter hits. Half the calls we get in December are preventable. If your tread is worn or your tires aren’t rated for winter, you’re rolling the dice every time it snows.
Serving Gilbert and All of Gilbert
Tow Gilbert proudly serves Gilbert and surrounding communities including Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley. Whether you’re near SanTan Village, Gilbert Heritage District, Riparian Preserve or anywhere in Gilbert, we’re here to help.
Our drivers know the local roads — from Loop 202 Santan Freeway to the back streets of Gilbert. When you call, we’ll get to you fast because we know exactly where you are.
Need Tow Truck Gilbert? Contact Tow Gilbert Today
When you need professional towing or roadside assistance in Gilbert and surrounding communities, Tow Gilbert is here for you 24/7. Our experienced team provides prompt, reliable service with transparent pricing.
Call us now at — we’re ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are your tow truck operators licensed and insured?
Absolutely. Tow Gilbert is fully licensed, bonded, and insured as required by Arizona state regulations. All our operators are trained and certified professionals.
How much does towing cost in Gilbert?
Towing costs in Gilbert typically range from $75 to $250 depending on distance, vehicle size, and time of day. Tow Gilbert provides upfront quotes before any work begins so you’re never surprised by the final bill.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), and can work with insurance companies for direct payment.
Is towing more expensive during winter storms?
Towing rates during severe weather can be slightly higher due to increased demand and hazardous conditions. However, Tow Gilbert maintains fair pricing year-round. Call us for an honest quote regardless of weather conditions.
What should I keep in my car during Arizona winters?
Essential winter car kit items include: a blanket, flashlight, phone charger, jumper cables, ice scraper, small shovel, sand or cat litter for traction, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep Tow Gilbert’s number saved for emergencies.
How quickly can a tow truck arrive?
Tow Gilbert typically arrives within 30 minutes for calls in the Gilbert area and neighboring communities. Emergency situations receive priority dispatch, and we’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
What should I do while waiting for a tow truck?
Stay in your vehicle if it’s safe to do so, turn on your hazard lights, and move to the shoulder if possible. If you must exit, stay well away from traffic. Call Tow Gilbert and we’ll keep you updated on our arrival time.
Our Towing Services Across Gilbert
Tow Gilbert provides a full range of towing services:
We proudly serve Tempe, Scottsdale, Phoenix, and the entire Gilbert area. Learn more about 24/7 emergency towing, Learn more about roadside assistance, Learn more about car lockout service.
Ready to Get Started? Contact Tow Gilbert Today
When you need professional towing services in Gilbert and surrounding communities, Tow Gilbert is here to help. Our experienced team provides quality workmanship with transparent pricing and a commitment to your complete satisfaction.
Get a free quote today