With an average low of 24 degrees Fahrenheit, Canadian winters can get quite harsh. Snow can come up as high up as afoot.
To get ready for winter, you need to prepare yourself, your house, and yes-your car for the cold winter months.
This makes sure that once winter is over, it will be in good working condition as you can resume regular use.
Here are a few ways to help prepare your car.
Consider Getting Winter Tires
Tires and key in navigation and safety when driving. Winter tires are manufactured specifically to prevent skidding and secure your vehicle firmly on the road.
Aside from grip, winter tires also have more traction to help you getup icy inclines and push your through slushy conditions.
Ensure You Have a ‘Winter Stash’
This is one of the best things you can do for both your safety and your car.
A box of supplies can be a lifesaver when you run into car trouble during winter.
Some of the things you will need include:
- road flairs
- a first aid kit
- a flashlight
- warm blankets
- gloves
- charged phone
- ice scraper
- a bag of sand (if you ever need traction)
To simplify this process, assemble a box of these items and store it in your garage. All you need to do is load it in your car boot every start of winter.
Check Tire Pressure
Aside from tread depth, tire pressure is another key component of safe driving that you need to check on right before winter.
Use a simple tire gauge to check your tire pressure, then follow your car manual’s recommendation regarding the same.
Buy Winter Windshield Wiper Fluid
The wiper fluid you use seamlessly in fall, spring and summer becomes inadequate as soon as winter sets in. This is largely because it freezes once exposed to the cold.
Winter windshield, on the other hand, is designed to stand cooler temperatures without solidifying.
Good winter windshield wiper fluids loosen ice that forms on your windshield, increasing visibility.
Get Winter-Friendly Oil
The colder the gets, the more critical it becomes to have thin oil in your car.
Once winter starts closing in, find a good winter-friendly oil with a lower cold weather viscosity grade.
For example, you can switch your typical 20W-30 oil with a 5W-30 for the winter months.
Check Antifreeze and Coolant
Antifreeze works by ensuring your engine does not freeze when the weather hits the freezing point.
Without this, the engine can freeze over, leaving you in a desperate situation out in the cold.
Check your antifreeze levels following the car’s manual.
In Summary
All these are necessary things to do before winter for your safety and ensure your car remains in good condition.
Granted, getting these checks done requires some money. If you are short on funds, follow this link to search for a payday loan in Montreal.
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