Winterize Your Car in Ontario
Winterize Your Car in Ontario
Posted on December 4, 2023
During winter in Ontario, there are a few steps you need to take each year to ensure your safety when driving. From tires to keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle, there are many ways to prepare your car for winter weather. Other steps you can take besides the ones listed include visiting your local dealership for a winterization checkup.
Step 1: Tires
Sorting out your tires is the first step when it comes time to prepare a car for winter. While all-season tires are great, snow tires can be a better way to tackle the road when it snows or ices over. While every province has their own laws around this, in Ontario, these types of tires aren’t regulated but are recommended.
Additionally, your tire pressure is very important during this season. Adding a little bit of air pressure when the weather cools down can improve the tire’s lifespan. With decreased air pressure, the tires make more contact with the ground and wear out quicker. This additional wear and tear is also the cause of higher chances for a blowout.
Step 2: Check Your Antifreeze
Before you start driving a car around in winter, you should ensure your antifreeze is topped up. Antifreeze keeps the water in your drivetrain at a usable temperature even during cold weather, where it’s likely to freeze. Check your vehicle’s manual or ask a mechanic about how much antifreeze your vehicle needs before topping it up. Having enough antifreeze will aid in preventing breakdowns and further complications.
Step 3: Let Your Vehicle Idle Before Driving
Before driving, you’ll also need to start your car up and let the engine heat up for a few moments. While new models only require around 30 seconds, older vehicles can take several minutes before the engine has warmed up an ideal amount. Warming the vehicle up ensures good performance, handling, and safety while reducing the chance of mechanical failures.
Step 4: Check the Wipers
You should also check your windshield wipers, as the cold can damage them. If the blade looks worn or the wiper rusty, it’s time for a change. Bad visibility, especially during rain and snow, is the cause of many accidents on the road. Going a step further, you may even consider keeping a spare set of wipers in your car.
Step 5: Prepare an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit for winter is a great way to stay ahead of any of the many possibilities that could happen on a winter road. The kit includes a flashlight with spare batteries, an ice scraper, a selection of non-perishable food, and more. Other essential gear to pack includes water, spare antifreeze, a battery pack, warm clothes or blankets, and a car toolkit.
Winterize Your Car Today
Take the time to visit Rouge Valley Mitsubishi, your local dealership, to find out the best ways you can winterize your Mitsubishi today.