Worry-free winter driving
Winter weather can be perilous and unpredictable. But preparing your car at the beginning of the season will help you be ready for anything Old Man Winter throws your way.
Winter
checkup
At the minimum, have a maintenance checkup done in the fall to ensure that the battery, belts and hoses, radiator, oil, lights, brakes, exhaust system, heater/defroster, wipers and ignition system are in good working order.
Next, maintain your fluids. Always keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent condensation in the gas line, and consider adding gasoline antifreeze to every second tankful for easy starting. Top up antifreeze, transmission, brake and windshield washer fluids and keep extra antifreeze and windshield fluid (rated for -40°C) in the car.
Before you set off anywhere, completely clear snow and ice from the lights, roof and all windows of your car.
The tire brigade
You’ll travel more safely in winter weather when your snow tires are properly installed.
Install four identical winter tires with the same size, type, speed rating and load index for optimal vehicle handling. Look for the new pictograph of the peaked mountain and snowflake marked on the tire, indicating that the tires are designed for use in severe snow conditions, especially if you live in a snow belt.
Tire pressure drops at lower temperatures, so be sure to check it at least once a month. As well as improving safety, proper air pressure extends tread life and provides better mileage.
Emergency Kit
It doesn’t take long to put together a bag of equipment to stash in the car in case you get stranded. Your emergency kit should include: a flashlight with extra batteries; blankets; a candle and matches; a cup to melt snow for drinking water; hazard markers or flares; a snow shovel; salt; extra hats, socks and warm mittens; and food such as granola bars, raisins or chocolate. It could save your life.
The best way to foil car thieves
There’s a new and highly effective auto-theft prevention device that you may have heard about. It’s called an electronic immobilizer and it stops thieves in their tracks — literally — by shutting down the target car’s operating systems.
When an immobilizer is installed, a key with a special microchip in the head must be used to start the car. Without it, the starter, ignition and gas flow won’t work, and the would-be thief can’t drive away.
Many new cars now come with an immobilizer already installed. If yours doesn’t have one, you can have it added, usually for less than $400. Look for one that meets Canadian Standard ULC S338. And notify your licensed insurance advisor — you may qualify for a discount on your premiums.