With winter almost here and the temperature already starting to drop, now is the best time to prepare your car for the cold weather that’s coming. Most drivers in Canada know how to drive on a snow-covered or slippery road but many are unaware that there are some things you must do to get your car ready for winter driving. How do you get your car ready for winter driving? Keep reading to review the top five tips that will help you get your car ready for winter driving, so you can be prepared for the cold months ahead.
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5 Tips To Help Get Your Car Ready For Winter Driving
- Schedule Winter Auto Service. Winter automotive services play an important role in being prepared for winter driving. Winter car services can include many different automotive services that are all performed to help your vehicle make it through winter. Winer auto services can include testing your vehicle’s battery, evaluating tire tread, checking your car’s cooling system levels, and the condition of belts, hoses, spark plugs, cables and wires. Scheduling a winter car service is essential if you want your vehicle to make it through the winter without a breakdown or emergency.
- Install Winter Tires. Make sure you have winter tires on your vehicle during the winter months as they offer the increased traction control you need on snow-covered roads. Winter tires are specifically designed for cold weather and are ideal for driving during the winter months of Canada.
- Keep the Gas Tank Filled. Cold weather can cause condensation to build up in your gas tank, which can lead to water getting into your fuel lines. During the winter, this condensation can cause that water to freeze up in your fuel lines, which will block the flow of gasoline to your engine. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least a quarter tank full at all times to keep it from freezing and causing you problems.
- Pack a Winter Safety Kit. The key to success is being prepared for anything. Having a winter safety kit in your car can help you deal with unforeseen problems that can cause your vehicle to break down in the winter. Supplies that you should pack in your winter safety kit include a flashlight, blankets, first-aid kit, ice scraper, road flares, food, water, matches, antifreeze, car tool kit, phone charger, jumper cables and many other useful items.
- Ensure Your Heater and Defroster Are Working. Check to ensure that your vehicle’s heater and defroster are working properly before you start driving this winter.
To learn more about what you can do to help get your car ready for winter driving, or to schedule winter automotive services, please contact Red Hill Toyota, today, to speak with an automotive service professional.