Winter isn’t kind to cars and winter driving can be dangerous. Preparing your vehicle in advance will help you combat whatever winter throws your way.
In severe weather, it’s key that your vehicle be in good working order. Keep your vehicle in top working condition by following its manufacturer-defined maintenance schedule. You can find more information in the owner’s manual for your vehicle.
In addition to regular maintenance, you can bring your vehicle to a licensed facility for a winter inspection. Newer vehicles have systems that require a repair facility to check that they’re working properly.
Transport Canada has some tips to ensure you and your car are ready for the season:
Battery
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- Your battery works harder in cold temperatures, so a weak one is a liability. If it’s between three to five years old, chances are that it could fail. Check for signs of corrosion, wetness, or bulges in the casing.
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- Make sure that all lights work and that the headlights are adjusted properly.
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- Make sure that the headlights are in the proper position. Many new vehicles aim headlights automatically, so they need to be inspected by a professional to ensure they’re in the right position.
Brakes
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- Do a thorough brake check to make sure they’re in top working condition. Pulling, a change in pedal feel, or unusual squealing or grinding may mean that the brakes need repair.
Exhaust system
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- Check for leaks that could send deadly carbon monoxide into the vehicle.
Heating and cooling system
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- Check the radiator hoses and drive belts for cracks and leaks.
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- Make sure the radiator cap, water pump, and thermostat work properly.
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- Test the strength and level of the coolant/anti-freeze, and make sure the heater and defroster work well.
Windshield wipers
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- Make sure that wipers are in good condition and replace blades that streak.
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- Use wipers designed for winter.
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- Fill up on winter washer fluid in the -40°C temperature range and carry an extra jug in the vehicle.
Tires:
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- Make sure the tires are at the correct pressure
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- Make sure winter tires have at least 4mm tread depth for the safest winter driving.
Winter tires
Look for the peaked mountain with snowflake symbol when shopping for winter tires. Tires marked with this symbol meet specific snow traction performance requirements and have been designed specifically for use in severe snow conditions.
At temperatures below 7°C, all-season and summer tires begin to lose elasticity, leading to less traction. Winter tires keep their elasticity and grip at much lower temperatures.
Wide, high-performance tires, other than those specifically designed as winter tires, aren’t suitable for snow-covered roads.
As a tire wears, it loses traction. Don’t use tires that are worn close to 4 mm (5/32) tread depth on snow covered roads.
Installing winter tires
To help maintain control and stability of your vehicle in icy conditions, you should install winter tires in sets of 4. Vehicle handling will improve when tires with the same type, size, speed rating and load index are installed on all 4 wheels. Don’t mix tires with different tread patterns, internal construction, and size as they will make your vehicle less stable.
Put the best tires on the rear of the vehicle to help maintain directional control. This means tires with the deepest tread depth should be installed in the back. If your tires are rotated regularly, they should have similar tread depth.
Make sure that directional tires are installed on the correct side of the vehicle.
Some tires may come with tread-wear indicators that are 2mm. Tires that are worn close to the tread-wear indicators have less traction and shouldn’t be used on snow-covered roads or in severe snow conditions. Don’t use tires that have less than 4mm tread depth.
Insurance companies may also give you a discount if you use winter tires.
Checking air pressure
Proper air pressure extends tread life, improves safety, and reduces fuel consumption — all vital factors in saving energy and protecting the environment.
Check tire pressure often, especially before any highway driving or before longer trips. Properly inflated, high quality winter tires in good condition will give you best traction on winter roads and increase fuel efficiency.
A tire that has good pressure when checked in a warm garage will be under-inflated when it’s below zero outside. Tire pressure goes down in the cold, which is why you should do your checks when the tires are cold. Use the maximum pressure amount shown in the owner’s manual or on the doorframe as a guide, but never go above the pressure shown on the tire sidewall. Check your spare tire pressure regularly as well.
You can find the recommended tire pressure and size for your vehicle’s tires on the tire information label. This label is usually located on the edge of the driver’s door or the door post.
Be prepared
Now that you’ve made sure your car is ready for the winter season, here are some additional items to keep in mind:
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- Pre-heat your engine. If the temperature in your area drops below -15ºC, consider using a block heater to reduce engine stress.
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- Keep your wiper fluid full. Keep extra fluid in your trunk. Make sure it’s rated for -40ºC.
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- Prevent your gas line from freezing. Keeping your tank at least half full reduces the build-up of condensation, which can freeze and stop fuel from reaching your engine.
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- Combat rust. There are several ways to avoid rust: frequent car washes that include an undercarriage wash; rustproofing; and applying a layer of polymer or carnauba over paint and trim.
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- Prepare for the unexpected. Emergency car kits can help you out of a bind. Some items you should pack include: gloves, hats, a blanket, a first aid kit, booster cables, a small shovel, flashlight, snow brush/scraper, windshield washer fluid, lock de-icer, paper towels, bottles of water, reflective triangles or flares, kitty litter (sand) or other traction aids, tool kit.
If you have questions about your automobile policy, please feel free to contact our helpful team by phone: 1-877-225-0446 or online here.
Photo: Wesley Tingey