Canadian-Owned and Operated Since 1985January 16 2024,
Cold weather puts a strain on vehicles, especially the engine and the heating system that work overtime in winter. And you need to be prepared for slippery driving conditions. Winterizing your vehicle before the cold weather arrives is essential to help ensure your safety while driving.
1) Wash, Wax, and Polish
The combination of icy snow and road salt can corrode your vehicle's bodywork. Giving it a full wash, wax, and polish before winter sets in will help to protect it. It’s also important to wash the undercarriage of your vehicle monthly during winter to prevent rust.
2) Check All Lights
Before the nights grow longer, be sure to check that all the headlights, taillights, turn signals, emergency lights, and interior lights are working well, and replace the bulbs if needed. Good exterior lights are essential for visibility in dark or murky winter weather, and working interior lights are critical for comfort and safety if you're stranded in a storm.
3) Test the Electrical System
Winter places heavy demands on a cold battery. Vehicle batteries need to be changed every three to five years, and you should test yours every fall to ensure it’s in good condition and holding its charge. Take your car to a professional Service Centre where expert technicians can properly inspect the state of your battery to help you avoid battery failure in winter. This is also a good time to check the heating system and ensure it’s ready for cold morning starts.
4) Change to Winter Tires
If you live in an area that sees heavy snowfalls and freezing temperatures, winter tires are vital for reliable handling and safety during the colder months. Regular summer tires are not a safe choice because they lose traction once the temperatures drop. All-season tires aren’t as reliable or safe as winter tires in cold climates either. With shorter braking distances and a better grip on icy roads, winter tires are essential from late fall to early spring.
5) Check Oil and Antifreeze Levels
Hardworking engines need plenty of protection in winter, so ensure the oil level is properly topped up to provide full protection in freezing temperatures. Check that the cooling system and windshield washer reservoir are filled with the correct mixture of water and antifreeze and keep an extra bottle of antifreeze in your trunk for emergency refills.
6) Load Up On Winter Accessories
Ice scrapers, snow brushes, heavy gloves, and deicer sprays are all essential items to have on hand for heavy snowfalls, which is why it’s important to ensure you keep them in your vehicle, so you’re not stuck far from home with a frozen windshield.
7) Prepare an Emergency Kit
Lastly, if the worst happens and you're left stranded in harsh winter weather, an emergency kit, including blankets, high-energy food, water, a flashlight, a shovel, and road flares will help keep you safe and comfortable until help arrives.
8) Schedule a Service Appointment
There's no substitute for a winter servicing appointment to make sure your car is in great shape to handle the icy conditions ahead. To book a comprehensive winter servicing appointment before the snow arrives, contact your local Dilawri-franchised dealership today!
