(Inspired by NAPA Canada’s blog post “5 Ways to Prepare Your Car for Winter” — visit NAPA Canada for the full original article.)
As temperatures drop and snow starts flying, it’s time to give your vehicle a little extra attention. Winter driving in Atlantic Canada can be unpredictable — so a bit of preparation now can save a whole lot of headaches later. Here are five essential steps to help you get ready for the cold months ahead.
1. Check Your Battery
Cold weather is tough on car batteries, reducing their performance when you need it most. Have your battery tested before winter hits to make sure it’s holding a strong charge. If it’s a few years old or showing signs of weakness (slow starts, dim lights), consider replacing it before you’re stranded in a snowbank.
2. Swap to Winter Tires
All-season tires just don’t cut it once temperatures consistently drop below 7°C. Winter tires are designed with softer rubber compounds and deeper tread patterns that grip better on ice and snow, keeping you safer when traction is low. Make sure to check tire pressure regularly, as it drops with the temperature.
3. Inspect Your Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid
Visibility is everything in winter. Swap out old or streaky wipers for new ones, and top up your washer fluid with a winter-grade blend that won’t freeze. Pro tip: keep a spare jug of washer fluid in your trunk — you’ll thank yourself on salty highway drives.
4. Stay on Top of Fluids and Maintenance
Engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid all work harder in the cold. Make sure your vehicle’s fluids are topped up and in good condition. A quick visit to your mechanic or a NAPA AutoCare Centre for a pre-winter inspection can catch small issues before they turn into big winter problems.
5. Stock a Winter Emergency Kit
Even the best-prepared drivers can hit a patch of bad weather. Keep an emergency kit in your trunk with essentials like a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, non-perishable snacks, a shovel, and a small bag of sand or kitty litter for traction.
Final Thoughts
A few hours of prep now can make winter driving safer, smoother, and a lot less stressful. Stay ahead of the snow, and make sure your car’s ready for whatever the season throws at it.
Article inspired by NAPA Canada.