Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter driving
You can never be too prepared when it comes to winter, especially in Canada. Rather than putting off the necessary work until the last minute, try starting to prepare you vehicle now. You'll be happy you did when your life is less stressful come the onslaught of winter.
Make sure your battery is fully charged and in working condition. Clean posts and make sure the connection is strong. Replace your battery if it does not hold a full charge, has cracks in the casing, or seems otherwise unsafe. We carry a line of high quality Optima Batteries to help get you going.
Check your ignition. Check and replace any worn or damaged wiring. Replace any worn spark plugs. Make sure that all lights are working properly and replace any that are burnt out. Make sure that your head lights are properly aimed. Be sure to check and service your brakes to ensure even braking.
Install winter tires. Do not mix tires with different tread patterns. This can cause uneven traction. It is important that you check your tire pressure frequently to ensure you have the best traction on icy surfaces. It is best to check your tire pressure in colder temperatures to prevent under inflation. If tires are checked in a warm garage they can lose pressure when in cold weather, making the tire pressure unreliable on ice.
Check your exhaust for leaks that could result in harmful carbon monoxide emissions in your vehicle. Check radiator hoses and drive belts for cracks and replace any that are worn. Make sure the heater and defrost work well.
Visibility is important, especially when the weather is bad. Be sure that your windshield wipers are in good working condition. Replace any windshield wiper blades that streak. It is worthwhile to get wiper blades that are designed for winter. If you are in need of new windshield wiper blades, check out some of the wiper blades carried by Auto Truck Depot. Be sure to keep your windshield washer fluid full with fluid for up to -40°C and always keep extra in your vehicle.
Safety tips
Check the weather patterns before driving, especially before driving on the highway. Be prepared for the weather. Keep your vehicle stocked with an ice scraper/brush, flashlight, booster cables, a shovel and warm clothes. You never know when you might need these things.
Always drive at speeds that are safe for the conditions. This is often slower than the speed limit. Keep distance from other drivers to reduce collisions. This is especially important when conditions are icy. Know how your vehicle handles, and drive appropriately and brake slowly. Avoid locking your wheels as this can cause you to lose control.
Auto Truck Depot
107, 42 Ave SW, Calgary, Alberta
Toll Free: 1-855-253-4330
Local: 1-403-253-4330
info@autotruckdepot.ca
Sources Cited:
Transport Canada. Winter Driving: You, Your Vehicle and Winter Driving. N.p.: Transport Canada, 2015.CAA. Transport Canada. Web. 12 Dec. 2015. http://www.caa.ca/working-for-you/safe-driving/winter-driving.