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The cold weather of fall and winter can be hard on your vehicle’s systems, especially if it’s gotten a lot of use over the summer.īreaking down is unpleasant no matter the season, but it can be especially distressing in the middle of winter, especially if you live in an area that gets snow or has harsh, cold temperatures. Now’s your chance to be proactive and it doesn’t have to be intimidating. Well, if something goes wrong and there’s eight inches of snow on the ground, you’re going to be one unhappy ice cube wrenching your ride in your driveway. It’s not out of the ordinary if you’ve been ignoring that check engine light for most of the year. Of course, you should be doing maintenance on your ride year-round, but there are some things to ensure you address as summer ends and fall slowly turns to winter. However, you shouldn’t forget to take care of your car. Pack an Emergency KitĮmergencies happen! Always be prepared for getting stuck in a snowstorm or your car breaking down when you are out in the middle of nowhere.Ĭarry an emergency kit stocked with first aid supplies, a flashlight, a thick blanket, booster cables, an ice scraper, a small shovel, a snow brush, emergency reflectors, candles, matches/lighter, etc.Who doesn’t love the changing seasons as the year winds down? Beautiful autumn leaves, football, and colder weather are all part of the pure excitement of fall. Check the brakes, belts, hoses, filters, ignition system, spark plugs, heater/defrosting systems, lights, etc. Do a General Tune-Upįall is a good time to tune up your car. They are easy to clean up and should be cleaned/drained often to avoid fogging when the snow melts. Rubber mats designed for your car’s make and model can help to hold the snow that you bring into your car. The coolant you are using should have the right ratio of anti-freeze to water, e.g. Check the CoolantĮnsure the coolant in your car is at appropriate levels and in excellent condition.
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A block heater timer can help you save on the amount of electricity used. Plug in your car for about 4 hours before starting up. This will ensure the engine starts up and warms up faster.
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However, outside parking in temperatures below -15⁰C for extended periods requires that you warm up your car engine for a few hours. If you park within a well-insulated or heated garage, plugging in your car may not be required. Ensure the Block Heater WorksĬheck that your car’s block heater is working before winter. Related: Rules for Winter Tires in Canada 6. If you are in the habit of using water as your windshield washer during the spring and winter months, beware!įor winter, you need a washer fluid that can withstand cold conditions, ideally down to -40⁰C. There are also wiper blades specifically designed for handling snow, ice, and other stresses of the winter months. Wiper blades break down over time and should be regularly examined for wear and tear. Check the cable connections, remove corrosion, and tighten them to ensure good contact. Have your battery tested and ensure it has enough power to start your engine on a frigid -35⁰C morning. Check the Batteryīatteries generally die after about 4 years of use or earlier when used mostly in hot weather. There are specific oil types recommended for winter conditions because they have less viscosity (thinner) and will help the engine work more efficiently. If you have not had an oil change done, now is the time to do so! Check air pressure on a monthly basis and adjust as required. Winter tires are specifically made for harsh winter conditions, have more traction, and will stop quicker in an emergency.Īlso, make sure the air pressure is at recommended levels. Winter tires perform at their best when the temperature drops below 7⁰C.Īlthough all-season tires marked as M+S (Mud and Snow) can legally be used in winter in most provinces, it’s not advisable.
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Pack an Emergency Kit 10 Simple Winter Car Care Tips 1.