Get a Winter Car Checkup in the Fall
Preparing your car for winter is essential to ensure both your safety and your vehicle’s performance during the colder months. Here's a guide to help you get your car winter-ready:
Checklist
Battery Check
Cold weather puts extra strain on your battery. If your battery is between three to five years old, it might fail during winter. Look for signs of corrosion, wetness, or bulging. Consider replacing a weak battery before winter sets in. Do you need to plug in your battery over night to keep it charged and ready for morning?
Ignition System
Inspect the condition of your ignition components, including spark plugs, wires, and the distributor cap. These are critical for dependable starting, especially in cold weather.
Tire Inspection
Tire pressure tends to drop as temperatures decrease, which could lead to under-inflated tires. Regularly check your tire pressure and don't forget to check your spare tire as well. Do you need winter tires for your area?
Lights
Ensure all your lights, both interior and exterior, are in working order. Properly aimed headlights are crucial for safe winter driving, especially during the long, dark evenings.
Brake Inspection
If you’ve noticed any unusual noises like squealing or grinding, or a change in how your brakes feel, it’s time for a service. Good brakes can be a lifesaver when driving on icy roads.
Fluid Levels
Make sure your fluids are topped off and in good condition. If it’s been more than six months since your last oil change, now is a good time to get one. Also, ensure your engine coolant is suited for the colder temperatures in your area and flush it if it’s been over two years. Do you have enough windshield wiper fluid to clear your windshield to combat snow and slush?
Heating and Cooling
Test your heater and defroster to ensure they work well before winter hits. Visibility is key, and a malfunctioning defroster can put you at risk.
Wax Your Car
Apply a wax coating to protect your car’s exterior from road salt, which can cause rust. Waxing also makes it easier to brush off snow and ice. Touch up any scratches to prevent further damage over the winter.
Consider protecting your vehicle with a rust proofing treatment, particularly if your winter conditions are harsh.
Prepare for the Expected
Stock up on essentials like heavy-duty gloves, a snow brush, and an ice scraper. You may also want to keep road salt or cat litter in your trunk to help gain traction if you get stuck in snow or ice.
Prepare for the Unexpected
Pack an emergency kit in your car. Include items such as a blanket, gloves, hats, a flashlight, a first aid kit, booster cables, a small shovel, and any other essentials you might need if you find yourself stranded in the cold.
Here’s what the CAA recommends keeping in your emergency kit.
Winter Tires: What You Need to Know
Winter tires are mandatory in Quebec. In Quebec, winter tires are legally required from December 1 to March 15. Make sure you're aware of the requirements in your province.
What’s the difference between studded tires vs. snow tires?
Studded tires have metal or hard plastic studs that provide better traction on packed snow and icy roads. They’re ideal for those who frequently drive on frozen surfaces and have heavy winter conditions on the regular.
On the other hand, ordinary winter tires (without studs) are effective in a mix of slush, snow, and ice and are generally suitable for most winter driving conditions close to the border.
How to get the best discounts on winter tires
- Consider a Costco membership for some of the largest tire discounts.
- Look for online promotions and discounts at smaller tire brands.
- Compare prices online for brand-name tires and check for sales at your local stores.
- Shop during promotions for added savings through points and rebates
- Check to see if your credit card or work benefits offer any perks for tires
Ask your insurance provider if there is a discount in your province/territory for winter tires.
Buying used winter tires - what to look out for
If you opt for buying used tires from Kijiji or another seller, always check the date stamp to avoid purchasing tires that are more than five years old. Older tires may be dry-rotted or unable to hold pressure.
Always get your alignment checked to avoid uneven tire wear.
It’s worth it to take the time to make sure that your car is well-prepared for the winter season and ready for the best safety and performance on snowy, icy roads. Good luck and safe driving!
Ask your Western Financial Group car insurance expert for a car insurance quote.
