Preparing your car for winter
The harsh climate of Quebec winters requires careful maintenance of vehicles, which must be equipped with accessories that are specially made for the cold season. An overview of essential points not to be overlooked in the winter season.
The essential winter tires
It goes without saying that safe winter driving requires winter tires that are perfectly suited to your needs. Don’t hesitate to install them as soon as the mercury starts to hover around 7°C for a few consecutive days. The rubber compound in winter tires is better suited to colder temperatures, as are the deeper grooves in their tread. Driving on snow and ice will be much easier. Planning on buying new winter tires? Read our guide to help you choose.
Vehicle maintenance: a thorough inspection
Preparing your car for the winter season first requires a careful examination of its various components. Inspect belts and hoses for bulges, cracks, or leaks that may be aggravated by temperature changes. Have your vehicle’s headlights withstood the ravages of time? Many garages offer a polishing service. The block heater must also be examined using a device designed for this purpose. Its wire and power supply must be free of any cracks. If you have the slightest doubt or if inspecting your vehicle intimidates you, have it examined by a professional. At CAA-Quebec Approved Auto Repair Services facility, labour and new or used parts are covered by a 12-month or 20,000-kilometre warranty.
Ready for the winter season?
It’s important to ensure that your car’s alternator is in good condition, as well as its battery, because electrical circuits will be more in demand during the winter. Keep in mind that CAA-Quebec members have access to Battery Service mobile units, whose services include checking your battery and replacing it if necessary, whether you’re at home or on the road. Whether you’re driving in the city or the country, equip yourself with an emergency kit to keep in the trunk of your car. If something goes wrong, you’ll have the basic necessities to get you out of trouble.
Essential accessories for the winter
Freezing rain, snow, hail: winter often brings an intense mix of weather that is best met with accessories custom designed for extreme conditions. First, invest in an effective snow brush and scraper that will easily dislodge the ice sheets from your windshield. Also purchase winter mats with wide grooves designed to contain the inevitable trickles of water. Be sure to replace the wiper blades on your vehicle as soon as they show signs of wear that makes them less effective. Opt for a washer fluid designed for winter temperatures, otherwise it could freeze and damage the lines.
Own an electric car?
The cold has a considerable impact on electric car batteries’ range, hence the importance of reducing energy use, in particular by lowering the heating by a few degrees and installing low-consumption bulbs in the headlights. If possible, park your vehicle indoors and leave it plugged in even when charging is complete. Lastly, keep in mind that charging your battery will take longer in winter, so it’s best to allow enough time for it to get a full charge.
Checklist
Inspect…
- Belts and hoses
- Fog lights
- Block heater
- Alternator
- Battery
- Wiper blades
Winter car kit
- An ice scraper and snow brush
- Winter mats
- Windshield washer fluid
- An emergency kit
- A flashlight
- Traction aids and boosting cables
- A compact shovel
- Deicing salt or other thawing agent
- A blanket and warm clothes
- Snacks
- Water bottles
- Paper towels