Get Your Car Ready for Winter Driving

Unfortunately, it is that time of year again where you will start to see snow in the weekly forecast. Winter driving can be a challenge, but by being prepared for winter conditions, you’ll increase the chances of keeping you and your family safe. What does it mean to winterize your vehicle? It means a lot more than just putting on winter tires. There’s a host of fluids, supplies and hardware to check, but getting your vehicle ready for winter is easy with our handy checklist.

1. Install winter tires. Your winter tires can go on as soon as temperatures hit 7 C. The special rubber compound in your winter tires allows them to stay flexible, while gripping snow and ice for optimum traction.
2. Check the air pressure in all four tires and your spare tire. Cold air can make the pressure in your tires drop, which will affect your vehicle’s ability to bite ice and snow. It’s a good idea to check the inflation of your spare as well and ensure your tire changing kit is intact.
3. Check, change or top up all fluids. This includes everything from engine coolant and oil to windshield washer fluid and gas. You should always have at least half a tank of gas in the winter because you could be idling longer in traffic jams, or worse, in the ditch wanting to warm up. Having a full tank also prevents condensation from forming in your gas tank, which can be extensive during cold temperatures.
4. Check your blades, battery, brakes and belts. Your wiper blades should be changed at least twice a year so they can effectively wipe away blowing snow and rain. Also, have your battery checked to make sure it’ll keep your car running through the winter. Optimum braking also is critical during the winter when your car needs to perform on both snow and ice. Finally, check your engine belts and hoses while you’re at the shop.
5. Check your a/c and your exhaust systems. Many drivers don’t realize that your air conditioning system is what vehicles use to defrost and de-humidify the inside of your car. You’ll also want to make sure your exhaust system is intact, to avoid leaking exhaust pipes or mufflers. If the pipes are damaged, they could cause carbon monoxide poisoning or decrease the efficiency of your vehicle. While you’re at it, make sure that the block heater is still working.
6. Pack an emergency kit. Your kit should include some supplies for you and your passengers, including a first aid kit, bottled water, health bars, boots, gloves, and an extra winter coat. Remember to dress for winter every day. Even if it looks sunny when you head out, you could be facing a blizzard on the way back. Your kit should also contain emergency supplies for your vehicle, including booster cables, extra oil and windshield washer fluid, lock de-icer, flashlight, flares or safety triangles, an ice scraper and a shovel.