Your Vehicle Maintenance Checklist for Winter

This article is courtesy of our partner The Personal.

Driving in the winter can be challenging, so your car needs to be in optimal condition before the first flurries! We’ve prepared this handy guide to help you get your car in top shape for the cold season.

Get your car ready for winter with our checklist:

1. Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid

Buy winter wiper blades that cut through snow and ice for optimal vision onthe road in the winter. Also, make sure to fill up with the right type of washer fluid made especially for freezing conditions.

2. Battery Test

It’s recommended to test your car battery once a year. If your car is more than 5 to 7 years old and depending on your driving habits, it might be time to replace the battery. Don’t wait until your engine refuses to turn on in the middle of a -20 °C snowstorm!

3. Winter Tires

When the temperature drops below 7 °C, winter tires have better grip than all-season tires. They really are an important safety feature on icy roads. In Quebec, cars must have 4 winter tires from December 1 to March 15 or drivers risk a fine. Requirements vary in other Canadian provinces and territories, but most recommend winter tires for safe winter driving.

4. Antifreeze

The green or red/orange liquid in your radiator protects your engine from the cold weather and keeps it cool in the summer. Make sure your car contains 50% antifreeze and 50% water and the liquid is full. Youcan get the mixture checked at a repair shop or buy your own tester.

5. Oil Change

Check your owner’s manual to find out how often to change the oil and filter. The frequency can vary depending on your car model and your driving habits. In the winter, itis especially important to have the right oil texture as it tends to get thicker in cold temperature.

6. Locks, Latches, Doors

Have you ever been locked out of your car due to frozen doors in the icy weather? To avoid it, make sure to lubricate the door locks, latches and hinges, before the temperature drops. A little silicone spray can go a long way!

7. Floor Mats

Take extra care of the floor mat in front of the driver’s seat this winter. Choose the right mat size for your car to avoid obstructing the brake and accelerator! You can install winter floor mats designed to reduce salt stains and provide better coverage. Don’t forget to dry out your floor mats from time to time to get rid of the moisture.

8. Spark Plugs

Spark plugs can wear out over time. Get them checked before the cold sets in, as they can affect your engine’s performance and result in a loss of power. Well-functioning spark plugs can improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Your car needs regular maintenance and extra care during the coldest months of the year. This list is a good starting point, but it’s always best to have your car checked by a reliable mechanic for safe, smooth driving this winter!

To find out more, call 1-888-476-8737.

Or visit thepersonal.com/ospe


This article is being provided by OSPE on behalf of The Personal which has a group sponsorship agreement with regards to home and auto insurance for our members.

The Personal refers to The Personal General Insurance Inc. in Quebec and The Personal Insurance Company in all other provinces and territories of Canada.The information and advice in this article are provided for informational purposes only. The Personal shall not be liable for any damages or losses arising from any reliance upon such information or advice. The Personal recommends using caution and consulting with experts with respect to the proper use, installation and storage of any products referred to herein.

 

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